CUTTACK: The famous Binjharpuri, Motu, Ghumsuri and Khariar cattle as well as the Chilika buffalo of Orissa have finally gained recognition as indigenous breeds of the country. The enlisting of the four breeds of the State for the first time in the National Registry by the National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resource (NBAGR) would give a fillip to the conservation, upgradation and utilisation of livestock resources. With the inclusions the total number of indigenous cattle breeds in the country has gone up to 34 from 30 and buffalo from 11 to 12. The indigenous livestock breeds of Orissa have been under serious threat from cross-breeding and introduction of foreign varieties. Binjarpuri cow which is native to Jajpur district has been recognised as one of the most endangered cattle breeds of the State despite the fact that it had a high yield and possesses greater immunity levels to a host of livestock diseases. Besides, it has been acknowledged as a good breeder. Its counterparts, Ghumsuri is found in Ganjam and Phulbani, Khariar in Nuapara and Motu in Malkangiri district. The Chilika buffalo is native to Chilika lagoon and is also found in Puri and Khurda districts. The recognition has come after sustained efforts of the State Government backed by comprehensive research evidence provided by the Orissa Veterinary College under Orissa University of Agriculture and Technology, information officer of the Directorate of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services Dr BK Parida said. The Government has, in fact, identified 21 indigenous breeds including five cattle, eight buffalo, five sheep, four goat, three hen and four duck for conservation. The urgency stems out of a sharp decline in their population. Of the around three crore livestock population, indigenous breeds are now estimated to be not more than 10 lakh. There has been a three-fold decrease in numbers in three decades. A seminar was organised at the Veterinary College to mark the achievement in the presence of OUAT VC Prof DP Ray, Dean Prof PK Dehury and Associate Professor of Animal Breeding and Genetics Dr Sushant Das.