By Ashfaque Soomro
Pakistan is rich in cattle breeds. One of them is the Bhagnarri breed, which is domesticated in the Bhagnarri area of Balochistan. Bhagnarri breed Pakistan’s important breeds, originating mainly from the Sibi, Kachhi, Nasirabad, Jhal Magsi, and adjoining areas of Balochistan. It is famous in the entire country because of its adaptation to harsh environments, resistance to many endemic diseases, ability to utilize poor-quality forage, meat, size, and strength.
The market value of Bhagnari cattle is higher than all other local breeds. Market value in PKR of a normal mature healthy Bhagnari bull is between 500,000 and 600,000, while for other breeds the market rate is between 250,000 and 350,000. However, for cultural performances, the best Baghnarri bull’s market value goes beyond PKR 1.5 million. Sometimes, if the bull wins a cultural performance in festivals, its value goes beyond PKR 2 million PKR.
MetaMeta Research, under its RVO-funded NEWARABI program in Nai Gaj of Sindh and Bhagnarri areas of Balochistan, has taken some swift measures to promote this indigenous breed for multiple benefits, including economic and adaptation to harsh environments. It organized a farmer-to-farmer exposure visit for both communities, so they could learn from best livestock management practices and adopt good practices themselves. In the Nai Gaj Area of Dadu district, MetaMeta Research supported two farmers with the provision of two baby Bhagnarri breed animals, as it can be introduced widely in Sindh too. Now the farmers have multiplied from two to six. It is hoped that in the near future, the number will be increased to many, as now many farmers are willing to opt for this breed.
Bhagnari Cattle of Pakistan (photo by: Ashfaque Soomro)
Unlike many imported breeds that require intensive feeding and management, Bhagnari cattle thrive in extensive grazing systems with relatively low maintenance costs. Their ability to convert natural forage into quality beef makes them an economically viable option for livestock farmers, especially in resource-constrained rural communities.
Beyond beef production, Bhagnari cattle have traditionally been exhibited at livestock festivals, particularly the annual Sibi Mela, where they are showcased for their impressive size, strength, body conformation, and overall performance. It is a kind of cultural practice of local farmers. They are also used as draft animals, supporting farming operations in areas where mechanization remains limited. Their dual utility further enhances their value to rural households.
A well-organized farmer extension program could promote this breed in other harsh areas of Pakistan. It can generate multiple economic, social, and environmental benefits. It would contribute to increased beef production, higher household incomes, improved food security, stronger resilience to climate change, and enhanced conservation of Pakistan’s indigenous livestock genetic resources. Preserving and promoting Bhagnari cattle is not merely about conserving a breed—it is about safeguarding a resilient future for Pakistan’s livestock industry.
