Srinagar, Nov 7: The Department of Sheep Husbandry, Kashmir, on Saturday distributed 46 genetically superior Texel rams among progressive sheep farmers at Sheep Breeding Farm, Khimber, Srinagar, to promote scientific breeding and improve livestock productivity.

The initiative, undertaken under the guidance of Minister for Agriculture Production Javid Ahmad Dar, aims to strengthen the sheep husbandry sector by extending improved genetic resources beyond departmental farms to farmers at the grassroots level.
Texel, an internationally recognised meat-producing breed, is known for its superior muscular development, meat yield and desirable carcass characteristics. Its introduction into local breeding programmes is expected to improve the genetic potential of indigenous sheep through planned and scientifically managed crossbreeding.
The intervention is expected to enhance meat production, improve livestock quality and increase the income-generating potential of sheep-rearing households across the Valley.
Emphasising the importance of the initiative, Minister Javid Ahmad Dar said the government was committed to ensuring that scientific advancements and improved breeding resources directly benefit farmers.
He said sheep husbandry had considerable potential to strengthen J&K's rural economy and improve the livelihoods of thousands of families dependent on livestock rearing.
The Minister stressed that the focus should be on improving livestock quality, productivity and economic value rather than merely increasing animal numbers. He urged farmers to adopt modern animal husbandry practices and maintain coordination with departmental experts and field functionaries.
He also highlighted the potential of agriculture and allied sectors, including horticulture, dairy farming and sheep husbandry, to generate rural employment, strengthen household incomes and create sustainable livelihood opportunities, particularly for youth.
The department said such interventions were aimed at strengthening the sheep value chain, promoting scientific breeding and making livestock rearing a more productive and remunerative activity in Jammu and Kashmir.