Conservation of Ongole Breed Cattle

Posted on: July 23, 2025 | Source: PIB Delhi

The indigenous Ongole breed of cattle, known for its strength, resilience, and genetic purity, has witnessed a significant boost in population. According to official data, the population of Ongole cattle has increased by 10.88%—rising from 6.34 lakh in the 2012 Livestock Census (Breed Survey Report 2013) to 7.03 lakh in the 2019 Livestock Census (Breed Report 2022).

This growth is the result of various strategic interventions under the Rashtriya Gokul Mission, which is actively supporting the development and conservation of indigenous breeds across India, with special emphasis in Andhra Pradesh. Key initiatives currently underway include:

1. Expansion of Bovine IVF Technology

Three in-vitro fertilization (IVF) labs have been established and are operational at:

• Lam Farm, Guntur
• College of Veterinary Sciences, Tirupati
• National Kamdhenu Breeding Centre, Chintaladevi, Nellore

These labs are engaged in advancing reproductive technologies for indigenous breeds such as Ongole and Punganur, aiming to improve their genetic potential through IVF.

2. National Kamdhenu Breeding Centre – Southern Region

A dedicated center has been set up at Chintaladevi in Nellore district. This facility is envisioned to serve as a hub for the scientific and holistic development of native cattle breeds, including Ongole.

3. Gokul Gram in Prakasam District

A Gokul Gram has been established at Chadalwada, Prakasam district, to aid in the conservation and development of the Ongole breed. It plays a crucial role in the production and distribution of high-genetic-merit bulls that strengthen the breed’s lineage through structured breeding programs.

4. Strengthening of Bull Mother Farms

Support has been extended to bolster the bull mother farm dedicated to the Ongole breed at Chintaladevi, ensuring that breeding foundations are preserved and enhanced.

5. Herd Registration and Breed Identification

The Central Herd Registration Scheme is being actively implemented at Ongole. This program identifies, locates, and promotes elite animals from indigenous breeds—reinforcing breed standards and purity.

6. Upgradation of Semen Stations

Assistance has been provided for modernizing semen stations at Banawasi, Nandyal, and Vizag. These centers now maintain 24 High Genetic Merit (HGM) Ongole bulls. During 2024–25, these stations produced an impressive 5.07 lakh doses of Ongole cattle semen, enhancing artificial insemination programs across the region.

These initiatives reflect the government’s strong commitment to preserving India’s bovine heritage. As one of the most revered native breeds, the Ongole cattle not only play a crucial role in agriculture and dairy but also symbolize the genetic legacy of India’s rural landscape.

The information was shared in a written reply by Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel, Union Minister of State, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, in the Rajya Sabha on July 23, 2025.

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