Sat Nov 29 11:06:32 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text, followed by a news article based on the information provided:
Summary:
The Tamil Nadu government has announced a new Goat & Sheep Breeding Policy aimed at improving the genetic quality of local breeds, conserving native varieties, and boosting meat production in the state. The policy focuses on open nucleus breeding for goats and selective breeding for sheep, the introduction of artificial insemination (AI), and the establishment of nucleus farms to provide superior breeding stock. A key initiative is establishing nucleus herds in each district, consisting of 20 males and 200 females of native goat breeds. The policy also includes plans for data recording, semen production, livestock insurance, and support for cooperative societies for sheep and goat rearers.
News Article:
Tamil Nadu Launches Ambitious Goat & Sheep Breeding Policy to Boost Meat Production
Chennai, November 29, 2025 – The Tamil Nadu government today unveiled a comprehensive Goat & Sheep Breeding Policy, outlining plans to enhance the genetic potential of local breeds, conserve native varieties, and significantly increase meat production across the state.
The policy, announced this afternoon, prioritizes an open nucleus breeding system for goats and selective breeding within the breed with superior rams for sheep. A central element of the initiative is the establishment of nucleus herds in each district, each consisting of 20 male and 200 female goats of native breeds. According to the policy, breeding within these herds will focus on selecting superior offspring based on traits like growth rate and body structure, with top-performing males distributed for breeding purposes through natural service or Artificial Insemination (AI). The introduction of AI will be promoted as a way to enhance genetic potential.
“The demand for meat and meat products is exceptionally high in Tamil Nadu due to the primarily non-vegetarian dietary habits of the population,” the policy statement declared.
The government aims to upgrade non-descript native sheep and goat populations for improved meat production and the policy calls for establishing nucleus farms to serve as sources of elite breeding stock, facilitating the multiplication, conservation, and dissemination of superior germplasm.
The policy also includes provisions for detailed data recording systems, semen production units, livestock insurance, and credit programs. Cooperative societies for sheep and goat rearers will also be formed, along with a technical committee to oversee the implementation of the policy.
According to the 20th Livestock Census, Tamil Nadu boasts a sheep population of 45 lakh and a goat population of 98 lakh. The recognised sheep breeds include Mecheri, Kilakarisal, Vembur, Coimbatore, Madras Red, Ramnad White, Katchaikatty Black, Nilgiri, Tiruchi Black and Chevaadu, while the recognised goat breeds are Kanni Adu, Kodi Adu and Salem Black. The policy’s success will be critical in ensuring the sustainability and profitability of livestock farming in the state.
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