04/09/2026
๐ Landmark Breakthrough in Indigenous Pig Genomics
A major milestone in pig genomics and indigenous breed conservation has been achieved by ICARโNational Research Centre on Pig (ICAR-NRCP), Guwahati, with the generation of the first de novo chromosome-scale whole-genome sequence and functional annotation of Indiaโs indigenous Doom pig.
Native to the Brahmaputra Valley, the Doom pig has long been reared under low-input, semi-scavenging systems and is recognized for its exceptional environmental hardiness and notable tolerance to devastating viral infections, particularly African swine fever.
The landmark genomic study achieved 48ร genome coverage, a 2.524 Gb gap-free primary assembly and 99% biological completeness, while identifying 30,299 protein-coding genes.
This comprehensive genetic blueprint will provide a valuable foundation for understanding the Doom pigโs resilience and supporting indigenous biodiversity conservation, disease-resilient breeding, animal health and sustainable livestock development.
A significant step towards unlocking the genetic potential of Indiaโs indigenous livestock resources through advanced genomics.
Shivraj Singh ChouhanBhagirath Choudhary Ministry of Agriculture & Farmerโs Welfare, Government of IndiaPress Information Bureau - PIB, Government of India
