India at the Forefront of Animal Genetic Resource Conservation: Elected as Vice-Chair at Global Session

India was elected as Vice-Chair of the 12th Session of the Intergovernmental Technical Working Group (ITWG) on Animal Genetic Resources (AnGR) in Rome, representing the Asia & Pacific region. The ITWG, established by the FAO’s Commission on Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture, reviewed technical issues related to AnGR and made recommendations to the Commission.

Overview

The 12th Session of the Intergovernmental Technical Working Group (ITWG) on Animal Genetic Resources (AnGR) was held in Rome. India was elected as the Vice-Chair for this session and also represented the Asia & Pacific region. The ITWG is a body established by the FAO’s Commission on Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture, its main function is to review technical issues related to animal genetic resources and make recommendations to the Commission to further implement the Commission’s program related to animal genetic resources at a global level. The session discussed various important agenda points related to animal genetic resources, including the implementation of the Global Plan of Action, monitoring of AnGR diversity, and preparing the 3rd Country Report. India presented their methods for updating information in the Domestic Animal Diversity- Information System (DAD-IS) and outlined a system for organizing and cataloging native animal populations. The workshop also focused on the role of microorganisms relevant to ruminant digestion, the role of genetic resources in mitigating and adapting to climate change, and other important topics.

The ITWG on Animal Genetic Resources is focused on the conservation, sustainable use, and development of animal genetic resources which are essential for the livelihoods, food security, and well-being of millions of people worldwide so that it could benefit the people who are involved in the agricultural and livestock sector, as well as those who rely on animal-sourced food for their daily sustenance. Additionally, the conservation of animal genetic resources could also have positive impacts on the environment and biodiversity.

Important Information

• India was elected as the Vice-Chair of the 12th Session of the ITWG on Animal Genetic Resources (AnGR) representing the Asia & Pacific region.
• The ITWG is a body established by the FAO’s Commission on Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture, which reviews technical issues and advises the Commission on the implementation of the AnGR program at the global level.
• During the 12th Session, the Global Plan of Action for Animal Genetic Resources, monitoring of AnGR diversity, and preparing the 3rd Country Report were reviewed and discussed.
• Other key topics discussed included the role of microorganisms in ruminant digestion, genetic resources in climate change mitigation and adaptation, and access and benefit-sharing for AnGR.
• India shared their experience in updating data in the Domestic Animal Diversity- Information System (DAD-IS) and presented a framework for cataloging native populations.
• National priorities for germplasm cryopreservation and documenting non-descript AnGR to fulfill SDG indicators were presented and appreciated by the members.
• The conservation of animal genetic resources can have a positive impact on the environment, biodiversity, food security, and the livelihoods of people who rely on animal-sourced food.

Conclusion

The 12th Session of the ITWG on Animal Genetic Resources (AnGR) was held in Rome from 18-20 January 2023. During this session, India was elected as the Vice-Chair representing the Asia & Pacific region, and Dr. B.N. Tripathi, Deputy Director General (Animals Sciences) and National Coordinator of India shared the country’s experience in updating data in the Domestic Animal Diversity- Information System (DAD-IS). The session was focused on reviewing the implementation of the Global Plan of Action for Animal Genetic Resources, monitoring AnGR diversity, and preparing the 3rd Country Report. Other key topics discussed included the role of microorganisms in ruminant digestion, genetic resources in climate change mitigation and adaptation, and access and benefit-sharing for AnGR.

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