SRINAGAR: In a decisive push towards self-sufficiency in mutton production, the Jammu and Kashmir Government has stepped up importation of elite foreign sheep and goat breeds to upgrade local flocks and enhance meat productivity across the Union Territory.
The Department informed the Legislative Assembly that the introduction of superior germplasm is aimed at improving growth rate, carcass yield, reproductive efficiency and overall flock productivity. Officials described genetic upgradation as a long-term strategy to raise farmer incomes and reduce dependence on mutton imports from outside JK.
Over the past few years, multiple import initiatives have been undertaken. For the Kashmir division, 400 Merino sheep were imported to strengthen both wool and meat productivity.
Under the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme, Project-24 titled “Self Sustenance in Mutton Production,” 450 Dorper sheep were imported for Jammu division and 450 Texel sheep for Kashmir division during 2024-25.
The department has now initiated the tendering process for further importation of Romanov sheep for Jammu division and Finn sheep for Kashmir division, proposed during 2026-27.
In the goat sector, importation of Boer and Swiss Alpine breeds is at an advanced stage and is expected to be completed during the current year.
All imported breeds are currently being maintained at Government breeding farms for multiplication. Their progeny will be disseminated among farmers in a phased manner, likely beginning from the third quarter of 2026-27. Officials clarified that large-scale commercial field units of Dorper and Texel have not yet been established, as the immediate focus remains on breed multiplication and stabilisation.
The government said the selection of Finn, Texel and Romanov breeds is based on internationally recognised performance traits.
Texel sheep are known for superior muscling and high carcass yield, making them suitable for enhancing meat production efficiency. Finn sheep are characterised by high fecundity and multiple births, enabling faster flock expansion. Romanov sheep are globally recognised for exceptional prolificacy and adaptability, supporting higher lambing rates.
The integration of these high-yielding breeds into the existing production system is expected to significantly increase mutton output per animal and per flock.
While large-scale distribution of Dorper and Texel progeny will begin from 2026-27, earlier genetic interventions through improved rams and selective breeding have already benefited farmers by improving carcass weights and growth performance.
The forthcoming dissemination of Finn, Romanov, Boer and Swiss Alpine germplasm is expected to further improve reproductive rates and meat output, strengthening the economic viability of sheep and goat farming in the Union Territory.
Officials said the structured importation of elite, mutton-focused breeds, coupled with scientific breeding management, marks a long-term transition towards enhanced productivity, higher farmer income and gradual reduction in mutton imports into Jammu and Kashmir.
