Documenting India’s civilisational and natural heritage.
India is home to around 60% of the world’s wild Asian elephant population. Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted this global responsibility while marking World Elephant Day on August 12.
There is also an interesting historical dimension to the breed’s name. Tharparkar takes its name from Tharparkar district in Sindh, now in Pakistan, which formed part of undivided India, while its recognised breeding tract in present-day India includes Barmer, Jaisalmer and Jodhpur in Rajasthan and Kutch in Gujarat.
Announcing the achievement on World Lion Day 2026, Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Bhupender Yadav said the increase reflects sustained efforts by forest officials, conservationists, frontline workers and local communities involved in protecting the species and its habitat.
The breed developed across the plains of Haryana, western Uttar Pradesh and adjoining Rajasthan, an area characterised historically by intensive cultivation, hot summers, seasonal scarcity of fodder and the need for animals capable of performing several functions within a farming household. ICAR’s National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources officially records Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan as the home tract of Hariana cattle.
The gesture renews a little-known connection between India and the famous peacocks that have for decades roamed freely through Ariana Park, the sprawling green estate surrounding the UN’s European headquarters in Geneva.
The species was first noticed in Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary in January 1995, but its identity remained uncertain for more than a decade. It was formally described as a new species in 2006 by astronomer and naturalist Ramana Athreya, after detailed observations showed that its plumage, size and vocalisations differed from other known liocichlas.
In India, the species is now principally associated with eastern Arunachal Pradesh, particularly the river systems around Namdapha Tiger Reserve, Kamlang Tiger Reserve and the Lohit Valley. Its dependence on relatively undisturbed, free-flowing rivers makes the White-bellied Heron especially vulnerable to changes in river habitats.
The National Dairy Development Board classifies Kankrej as a dual-purpose breed used for both milk and draught work. Its native tract extends across parts of northern Gujarat and western Rajasthan, particularly the region surrounding the Rann of Kutch.
Unlike indigenous breeds selected primarily for dairy production, Nagori cattle were shaped by the practical requirements of farmers, traders and transporters living in an arid environment. Their long legs, powerful frame, strong feet and alert temperament enabled them to travel efficiently over hard, sandy and uneven ground.
The breed is officially recognised as an indigenous Indian cattle breed, with Maharashtra and Karnataka recorded as its native tract. Its registered accession number is INDIA_CATTLE_1108_KHILLAR_03014.
