• Dr. Vishwanatha
• Dr. Arun Das
• Dr. Koichi Kimoto

Livestock diversity plays a vital role in sustaining rural livelihoods, agricultural productivity, and ecological balance. In India, cattle are central to farming systems, providing milk, manure, and draught power, while also holding socio-cultural significance. This study explores the diversity of indigenous and improved cattle breeds in Metikuppe village, Hunsur taluk, Mysuru district, Karnataka. Using a case study approach, data were collected through household surveys, interviews, focus group discussions, and secondary sources such as livestock census reports and cooperative records. The findings reveal that farmers rear both indigenous breeds like Hallikar, Amrit Mahal, and Malenadu Gidda, and improved crossbreeds such as Holstein Friesian and Jersey crosses. While improved breeds provide higher milk yields and market returns, they require intensive inputs, veterinary care, and are more vulnerable to climatic stress. Indigenous breeds, although lower in productivity, show greater adaptability, disease resistance, and cultural importance. The study highlights the socio-economic trade-offs between breed choices and emphasizes the need for sustainable livestock strategies that balance productivity with conservation of indigenous genetic resources. The case of Metikuppe reflects broader trends in India’s cattle rearing practices, where modernization and traditional knowledge coexist in shaping rural development.

Livestock diversity, Indigenous cattle breeds, Improved cattle breeds, Crossbreeding, Hallikar, Amrit Mahal, Malenadu Gidda, Holstein Friesian crossbred, Jersey crossbreed, Metikuppe village, Dairy cooperatives, Sustainable livestock management

"Livestock Diversity in Cattle: Focus on Indigenous and Improved Breeds – A Case Study of Metikuppe", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.12, Issue 10, page no.a237-a241, October-2025, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2510029.pdf

"Livestock Diversity in Cattle: Focus on Indigenous and Improved Breeds – A Case Study of Metikuppe", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.12, Issue 10, page no. ppa237-a241, October-2025, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2510029.pdf