SRINAGAR, OCT 6: The sheep husbandry departments of Kashmir and Ladakh have moved towards strengthening cooperation in genetic improvement of livestock, with the Director Sheep Husbandry, Kashmir, Dr. Bashrat Amin Khuthu, agreeing in principle to provide at least four purebred Merino rams to the Union Territory of Ladakh for its ongoing crossbreeding programme.
The development followed a meeting between Director Sheep Husbandry, UT Ladakh, Dr. Iftikhar Hussain, and his counterpart in Kashmir during a courtesy visit. The two officials held detailed discussions on the Kashmir Merino crossbreeding programme as well as the Merino breeding initiative being implemented in Ladakh, with particular focus on breed performance, productivity and the results achieved through crossbreeding.
During the interaction, the officials examined the potential of Merino genetics to enhance the productivity of sheep populations in both regions. Merino is recognised as a dual-purpose breed, offering desirable traits for both quality wool production and mutton, making it relevant to efforts aimed at improving the economic returns and overall productivity of the sheep sector.
Dr. Iftikhar Hussain requested the Kashmir department to provide at least four purebred Merino rams to Ladakh to strengthen the genetic base of its ongoing crossbreeding programme. The proposed introduction of purebred breeding stock is aimed at improving the quality and performance of future sheep generations in the Union Territory.
Dr. Bashrat Amin Khuthu agreed in principle to provide the required number of purebred Merino rams, subject to completion of necessary departmental formalities. The move is expected to facilitate the transfer of proven genetic resources from Kashmir and support Ladakh’s efforts to improve sheep production under its local agro-climatic conditions.
The proposed cooperation also reflects the scope for greater institutional coordination between the sheep husbandry departments of the two Union Territories, particularly in areas such as breeding, genetic improvement, technical expertise and livestock productivity.
The initiative is expected to contribute to the long-term strengthening of Ladakh’s sheep sector by supporting improved breeding practices and enhancing productive traits, while also deepening technical collaboration between Kashmir and Ladakh in the field of livestock development.
