Guwahati, Dec 22: In a major breakthrough for India’s livestock research and for Nagaland’s cultural legacy, the ICAR–National Research Centre on Mithun (NRCM) have announced the registration of Nagami as the world’s first officially recognised Mithun breed.

The development marks a global milestone, giving scientific identity to the State animal of Nagaland for the first time.

The registration was granted by the ICAR–National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources (NBAGR), Karnal, following years of intensive fieldwork and genetic studies. The application was submitted by ICAR–NRC on Mithun under the leadership of Director Dr. Girish Patil S., while the breed characterisation project was led by scientist Dr. Harshit Kumar.

Calling the achievement historic, ICAR–NRCM said the recognition unlocks new opportunities for scientific conservation, genetic improvement, and sustainable livelihood development.

The newly recognised Nagami Mithun, a distinct Bos frontalis population, is widely reared across Nagaland under traditional forest-based grazing systems managed by village communities.

Researchers say the breed carries strongly identifiable features — including a compact and muscular frame, predominantly black coat, white stockings, and remarkable adaptability to hilly terrain. Molecular analyses have confirmed its genetic uniqueness from other Mithun populations in Northeast India.

Mithun holds deep spiritual, cultural, and economic value among Naga tribes, yet remained scientifically unclassified at the breed level until now. Researchers say this lack of classification restricted policy support and conservation planning.

The newly granted status now places Nagami Mithun alongside globally recognised indigenous livestock breeds — a move experts believe will strengthen the animal’s conservation value and economic visibility.

The registration follows extensive phenotypic, morphometric, and genetic documentation carried out across the state. Scientists and field teams engaged Mithun farmers, village councils, and state agencies throughout the process.

“This recognition is the outcome of dedicated scientific work and a tribute to Mithun-rearing communities of Nagaland,” ICAR–NRCM stated.

Heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Girish Patil, Director, ICAR-National Research Centre (NRC) on Mithun, Medziphema, Nagaland and his dedicated team on the successful registration of “Nagami,” the world’s first Mithun breed, by ICAR–NRC on Mithun.

This historic achievement is a… pic.twitter.com/BU9VlqE9w0

— Mhathung Yanthan (@MhaYanthan) December 21, 2025

With breed identity now secured, targeted breeding programmes, scientific management models, and funding opportunities are expected to gain momentum. Farmers, too, may benefit through improved market recognition and livelihood value.

The registration also reflects growing national and international attention on Mithun. In 2023, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India recognised Mithun as a food animal, and the same year it was listed in the FAO’s Domestic Animal Diversity Information System.

ICAR–NRCM described the breakthrough as a “Christmas gift” to the people of Nagaland and a recognition of the state’s rich livestock heritage.

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