Conservation of livestock breeds for sustainable live stock production

India possesses rich livestock genetic diversity, with numerous indigenous breeds adapted to diverse agro-ecological conditions. These breeds possess valuable traits such as heat tolerance, disease resistance, adaptability to harsh environments, and efficient production under low-input systems. However, indiscriminate crossbreeding, mechanization, changing production systems, climate change, and socio-economic factors are causing genetic erosion and threatening several indigenous breeds. Conservation of livestock genetic resources is therefore essential for sustainable livestock production and future breeding programmes. Both in situ conservation through maintenance of live populations and ex situ conservation through cryopreservation of semen, oocytes, embryos, and other genetic material are important. Effective conservation requires breed characterization, scientific breeding programmes, farmer participation, breeder organizations, genetic databases, reproductive technologies, and public awareness. Integrated conservation and sustainable utilization of indigenous breeds can help preserve valuable genetic resources while improving livestock productivity and resilience.