The ICAR-National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources (NBAGR) in Karnal has officially recognized the Tripureswari Duck from Tripura as a newly registered breed. This decision was made based on the recommendation of the Breed Registration Committee (BRC) of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR).
The Tripureswari Duck is native to Tripura and is widely found in districts such as Sepahijala, Gomati, Kowai, Dhalai, South Tripura, West Tripura, Unokoti, and North Tripura. This breed is primarily raised for egg and meat production, making it a valuable asset for small-scale farmers. On average, Tripureswari Ducks reach a body weight of 1.199 kg by 12 months of age, with annual egg production ranging from 70 to 101 eggs.
The decision to register the breed was made during the 12th meeting of the BRC, chaired by Dr. Raghavendra Bhatta, Deputy Director General (Animal Science), ICAR, held on January 6, 2025, at the National Agricultural Science Complex (NASC), New Delhi. The BRC serves as the apex body responsible for identifying and officially recognizing new livestock and poultry breeds across the country.
Duck farming plays a crucial role in India’s poultry industry, especially in rural and semi-urban areas, where ducks are reared under backyard farming systems. States such as West Bengal, Assam, Kerala, and Andhra Pradesh are among the top duck-producing regions in the country.
Indigenous ducks, commonly referred to as "desi ducks," are the most prevalent, with other recognized breeds including Khaki Campbell, Indian Runner, White Pekin, and Muscovy.
With this addition, India now has four registered duck breeds. The overall count of indigenous breeds stands at 53 for cattle, 21 for buffalo, 41 for goats, 46 for sheep, 8 for horses and ponies, 9 for camels, 15 for pigs, 4 for donkeys, 5 for dogs, 2 for yaks, 20 for chickens, 4 for ducks, and 1 for geese.
