HYDERABAD, April 8 2025: India's rich tapestry of indigenous chicken breeds reflects its diverse cultural and ecological landscapes. These breeds are integral to rural livelihoods, traditional cuisines, and hold significant economic potential.
According to the ICAR-National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources (NBAGR), as of January 2025, India has registered 22 indigenous poultry breeds . This article delves into ten prominent indigenous chicken breeds, highlighting their unique characteristics and contributions to India's poultry sector.
1. Aseel
Originating from Andhra Pradesh, the Aseel is renowned for its fighting prowess, muscular build, and aggressive nature. This breed has contributed to the development of modern broilers due to its robust physique. The Aseel's hardiness and adaptability make it a valuable genetic resource.
2. Kadaknath
Hailing from Madhya Pradesh, the Kadaknath is distinguished by its black plumage, flesh, and internal organs. This breed is highly prized for its meat, which is believed to have medicinal properties and is rich in protein and low in fat. Kadaknath meat fetches a premium price in the market.
3. Chittagong
Also known as Malay, the Chittagong breed is primarily found in West Bengal. It is characterized by its tall stature, long neck, and strong legs. The breed is valued for its meat quality and has contributed to the genetic makeup of several commercial broiler lines.
4. Nicobari
Native to the Nicobar Islands, the Nicobari breed is the most common fowl in the region. These birds are known for their adaptability to the island's climatic conditions and are primarily reared for egg production. They exhibit a variety of plumage colors and are an essential part of the local diet.
5. Ghagus
The Ghagus breed is prevalent in parts of Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. These birds are medium-sized with a compact body and are known for their alertness and foraging ability. Ghagus chickens are primarily reared for meat and are well-adapted to free-range systems.
6. Busra
Found in western India, particularly Maharashtra and Gujarat, the Busra is one of the lesser-known indigenous breeds. These birds are hardy, with good foraging abilities, making them suitable for backyard poultry farming. They are primarily reared for meat.
7. Harringhata Black
Originating from West Bengal, the Harringhata Black is known for its black plumage and is primarily reared for meat. The breed is well-adapted to local conditions and is valued for its flavorful meat.
8. Kalahandi
Native to Odisha, the Kalahandi breed is a hardy bird well-suited to the local climate. These birds are primarily reared for meat and are known for their good foraging ability and disease resistance.
9. Punjab Brown
As the name suggests, this breed is found in Punjab. The Punjab Brown is known for its adaptability and is reared for both meat and egg production. The birds have a brown plumage and are well-suited to the climatic conditions of northern India.
10. Mewari
Originating from Rajasthan, the Mewari breed is adapted to the arid conditions of the region. These birds are hardy, with good disease resistance, and are primarily reared for meat.
India's indigenous chicken breeds are a testament to the country's rich biodiversity and cultural heritage. These breeds not only support the livelihoods of millions of rural farmers but also contribute to the nation's nutritional security. The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying's 2024 Annual Report emphasizes the importance of conserving and promoting these indigenous breeds to enhance genetic diversity and resilience in the poultry sector.
As the poultry industry continues to evolve, integrating these native breeds into mainstream production systems can offer sustainable and profitable opportunities for farmers across the country.
Image credit: agrifarming.in
