Poultry Genetic Resources in India and Need of their conservation

Abstract

Poultry is amongst the fastest growing segments of agriculture sector in India though, still there is huge gap between demand and supply of eggs and chicken which depicts further scope for development of poultry industry in India. Native chickens are best suited for rearing under village conditions as they
are good foragers, efficient mothers and require less care to grow. Indigenous chickens are preferred in their native environment especially in tribal and rural sectors and their egg/meat is preferred because of their characteristic flavor, leanness, pigmentation, and suitability for special dishes and consequently they fetch a higher price. Local fowls have a number of adaptive features and genes that are particularly valuable in the tropics; nevertheless, owing of their poor production and apparent low commercial worth, their true value is frequently underestimated. Thus, special attention is required for the conservation and improvement of indigenous birds. Very few institutions or private organizations
are working on improvement of native breeds. A network initiative with a research center in each state to develop native breeds in that state would be extremely important, as the breed has adapted to the specific environment. These centers can serve as the suppliers of fertile eggs, day-old chicks and grower chicks to the villagers and the breed will be conserved in their respective ecologies.