Koraput: The Manda buffalo found in the Eastern Ghat and Koraput plateau in Odisha has been tagged as the 19th unique breed of buffaloes found in the country by the National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources (NBAGR).
The NBAGR is affiliated with the Indian Council of Agriculture Research (ICAR). It gave the indigenous recognition to this breed after thoroughly assessing a survey report submitted by Odisha’s Animal Resource Development (ARD) and Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT).
The ARD and OUAT had first identified the germ-plasm of this unique breed through a survey. Former ARD Director Bishnupada Sethi and animal geneticist of OUAT Susanta Kumar Dash had played a major role in seeking national recognition for the Manda buffalo.
There are around one lakh Manda buffaloes, which mostly contribute to nutrition needs of households and also assist in agricultural operations in the hilly terrains of Koraput, Malkangir and Nabarangpur districts. Besides, these buffaloes are resistant to parasitic infections and less prone to diseases.
The average single milk yield of these buffaloes is 2-2.5 litres with more than 8% fat. However, some of the yield goes up to 4 litres.
The Manda buffaloes get matured in three years and give birth to the first calf in the fourth year. During their 20-year life span, they give birth to a calf every 1.5 to 2 years.
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