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A diverse range of indigenous goat breeds
India is home to a diverse array of indigenous goat breeds, each with its own set of unique characteristics that make them well-suited to the country’s varied climatic conditions and farming needs. Here’s an exploration of the various Indian goat breeds and their distinctive traits.
Image: Canva
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Jamnapari goat
The Jamnapari goat, often referred to as the ‘Queen of goats’, hails from the Indian subcontinent. This breed is particularly known for its large size and long, pendulous ears. Jamnaparis are prized for their high milk yield and are also used for meat production. They have a distinctive convex face, known as a ‘Roman nose’, and their body is usually white with patches of tan or black.
Image: iStock
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Beetal goat
Originating from Punjab, the Beetal goat is another dairy breed known for its prolific milk production. Beetals are large animals, with bucks standing up to 36 inches tall. They have a short coat, usually black or brown, with white spots. Their long, pendulous ears and massive bodies make them easily recognizable. Beetals are also raised for their meat, which is considered high quality.
Image: iStock
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Konkan Kanyal goat
The Konkan Kanyal goat is a distinctive breed native to the Konkan region of Maharashtra, India. These medium-sized goats are primarily reared for their meat and are known for their predominantly black color with characteristic white markings. The white pattern typically includes a white underbelly and ‘stockings’ on the legs. The Konkan Kanyal goats are an integral part of the local agrarian economy and are mostly raised by the Dhangar and Maratha communities. They are well-adapted to the coastal climate of the Konkan area and play a crucial role in the livelihoods of small, marginal farmers and landless laborers. With an adult body weight averaging around 49.99 kg for males and 31.77 kg for females after 2.5 years, and a twinning percentage of 36.5, they are a valuable resource for meat production.
Image: Noble Goat Farm and Livestock Consultancy/Facebook
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Sirohi goat
The Sirohi breed comes from the Sirohi district of Rajasthan but is also found widely in Gujarat. These goats are medium- to large-sized and known for their sturdy build and good meat quality. They have a predominantly brown coat with light or dark brown patches. A unique feature of Sirohi goats is their ability to thrive on dry, scrubby vegetation, making them ideal for arid regions.
Image: aijaj_solanki/Instagram
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Osmanabadi goat
The Osmanabadi goat is native to the state of Maharashtra but can be found throughout central India. These goats are known for their adaptability to various climatic conditions and are primarily raised for meat production, although they also provide a decent amount of milk. They are usually black or spotted and are appreciated for their hardiness and low maintenance requirements.
Image: @DevendraRaje/X
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Black Bengal goat
The Black Bengal goat is a small but highly prolific breed, known for its excellent meat quality. As the name suggests, they are predominantly found in Bengal, but their popularity means they are now raised throughout India. They have a short, glossy black coat, though some can be brown or white. Black Bengals are also known for their high fertility rates and disease resistance.
Image: Canva
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Barbari goat
The Barbari goat is a small dairy breed found primarily in the northern states of India, like Uttar Pradesh and Punjab. They have a compact body with a distinctive straight profile and short, erect ears. The coat color varies from pure white to patches of tan, brown, and black. Barbaris are known for their high milk yield relative to their size and are also raised for meat.
Image: @SalmaZainab15/X
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Malabari goat
Also known as the Tellicherry goat, the Malabari breed originates from Kerala in southern India. They are medium-sized and have a short coat that can vary in color but often features a mix of black and white. Malabari goats are valued for both their meat and milk production and are known for their high fertility and maternal instincts.
Image: Malabari Goat/Facebook
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More about the Malabari goat
Males typically weigh around 40 kgs, while females weigh approximately 30 kgs. Known for their good skin quality, Malabari goats yield an average of 0.9-2.8 kg of milk daily. (Image:Instagram)
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