FIRDOUS AHMAD
SRINAGAR, Aug 29: In a major initiative aimed at strengthening the livestock sector, the Jammu and Kashmir government has deputed a three-member official delegation to Australia for the final inspection and takeover of a consignment of White Dorper Sheep. The visit will take place from September 2 to September 7, 2025.
As per Government Order No. 1157-JK(GAD) of 2025, issued by the General Administration Department, the delegation includes Mr. Javid Ahmad Dar, Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development & Panchayati Raj, Cooperative and Election Department, J&K, Dr. Des Raj Bhagat, JKAS, Officer on Special Duty to the Minister, and Mr. Khalid Masood, Public Relations Officer to the Minister.
The order, signed by Dr. Piyush Singla, IAS, Secretary to the Government, mentions that the deputation is subject to clearances from the concerned ministries of the Government of India and the completion of necessary formalities.
The delegation will undertake the final inspection of the White Dorper Sheep consignment before officially taking it over for Jammu Division. White Dorper Sheep, originally bred in South Africa and now raised in Australia, are known worldwide for their adaptability, disease resistance, and high meat yield. Their introduction in J&K is expected to significantly boost the Union Territory’s mutton production and improve the genetic pool of local breeds through crossbreeding.
Officials highlight that this step aligns with the government’s broader strategy to increase domestic mutton availability, reduce dependency on imports from outside the region, and provide new opportunities for sheep farmers. The Dorper breed’s proven ability to thrive in diverse climates makes it particularly suitable for Kashmir’s environment.
The government order also sanctions advance traveling expenses for the delegation as per rules.
This visit is a follow-up to an earlier order (No. 562-JK(GAD) of 2025 dated May 6, 2025), underlining the administration’s commitment to modernizing agriculture and allied sectors in the Union Territory.
Experts believe that the arrival of the White Dorper Sheep could transform J&K’s sheep husbandry sector, ensuring better meat quality, higher farmer incomes, and a new push toward commercial livestock farming.
