Kohima, August 27 (MExN): The Nagal pig, locally known as the Nagaland Large Black, has been officially registered as a ‘distinct indigenous pig breed of India’ by the ICAR-National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources (NBAGR), Karnal.
The recognition marks a historic milestone for Nagaland’s livestock sector and a significant step towards conservation and sustainable development of the state’s indigenous livestock resources, Director of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services, Dr Kuokehebi Gwirie said in a press release.
The scientific characterization of the breed was carried out by a multidisciplinary team led by Dr Dinesh Kumar Yadav, Principal Scientist, ICAR–NBAGR, Karnal, with contributions from Dr Mahak Singh, Dr Mahesh Dige, Dr Hiabe Zeliang, and Dr H Kalita.
The study established the Nagal pig as the largest indigenous pig breed in the country, with an average adult body weight of 101.3 kg in sows and 117.2 kg in boars. The breed is closely associated with the traditional farming systems and food culture of Nagaland and is valued for its hardiness, adaptability and ability to thrive under low-input production systems, it said.
A “Monograph on Nagal pig”, documenting the breed's origin, distribution, distinctive characteristics, and production and reproductive attributes, along with a future roadmap for its development, was released recently at ICAR-NBAGR, Karnal in Haryana by the Director General, ICAR, and the Deputy Director General (Animal Science), ICAR, at a scientific gathering, the release said.
The registration was achieved through the collaborative efforts of ICAR-NBAGR, ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Nagaland Centre, the state Department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services, and local farming communities who have traditionally conserved and maintained the breed, it said.
The national recognition provides the Nagal pig with an important national identity and opens up opportunities for conservation, genetic improvement, organised breeding and livelihood development, said Dr Kuokehebi.
Future initiatives are expected to include the establishment of nucleus herds, strengthening of community-based breeding programmes, and development of a traceable value chain for premium “Nagal Pork”. There is also potential to pursue Geographical Indication (GI) certification for Nagal Pork, subject to the necessary processes and requirements, the release said.
The Department of Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services, Government of Nagaland, has expressed gratitude to ICAR and all collaborating institutions, scientists, and farming communities for their support in facilitating this landmark achievement.
