Nagaland: ‘Nagami’ registered as world’s first Mithun breed

In a historic achievement, the ICAR–National Research Centre on Mithun (NRCM), Medziphema, has registered “Nagami” as the world’s first recognized Mithun (Bos frontalis) breed with the ICAR–National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources (NBAGR), Karnal. The milestone comes after years of systematic scientific investigation, documentation and validation.
The application for registration was submitted under the leadership of Dr. Girish Patil S., director, ICAR–NRC Mithun, while the breed characterization project was led by Dr. Harshit Kumar, scientist, ICAR–NRC Mithun.
Mithun, the State animal of Nagaland, occupies a central place in the socio-cultural, economic and traditional life of tribal communities. However, the species had remained largely uncharacterized at the breed level, posing challenges for conservation, genetic improvement and policy support. To address this, ICAR–NRC Mithun initiated comprehensive breed characterization studies to establish a scientifically validated identity for Mithun populations in Nagaland.
The Nagami Mithun is distinguished by its predominantly black coat with white stockings, strong and compact body conformation, adaptability to forest-based hill ecosystems, and high cultural significance among Naga tribes. Genetic analyses confirmed its distinct identity, differentiating it from other Mithun populations in the North-East.
Widely distributed across several districts of Nagaland, Nagami Mithun is traditionally reared under free-range, community-managed forest grazing systems. Its resilience and adaptability reflect the diverse agro-climatic conditions of the state.
The registration is the outcome of extensive field surveys, phenotypic and morphometric recording, genetic characterization and continuous engagement with Mithun farmers, village councils and state departments. The recognition marks a global first in Mithun breed registration.
Describing the achievement as a “Christmas gift” to the people of Nagaland, ICAR–NRC Mithun said the recognition of Nagami will enable targeted conservation strategies, scientific breeding programmes, enhanced livelihood opportunities for farmers and sustainable development of Mithun production systems.
It may be noted that Mithun was recognized as a food animal by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) in 2023 and included in the domestic animal diversity information system of FAO, Rome, the same year.