Located in the desert city of Bikaner, Rajasthan, the National Research Centre on Camel (NRCC) is a premier institution dedicated to the research, conservation, and sustainable utilization of camels. Established in 1984 by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), the NRCC has emerged as a global leader in camel research and has significantly contributed to the socio-economic development of the arid and semi-arid regions of India.
This institution plays a vital role in maintaining and improving the camel population in India, focusing on their breeding, health, productivity, and utility. With its state-of-the-art facilities and scientific approach, the NRCC has become a must-visit destination for researchers, tourists, and camel enthusiasts alike.
Objectives of the NRCC
The primary objectives of the NRCC are to:
- Conduct research on the genetic improvement of camels for increased productivity.
- Develop sustainable camel husbandry practices to benefit the local communities.
- Promote camel-based industries such as milk production, leather goods, and tourism.
- Study and address camel health issues, including parasitic and infectious diseases.
- Conserve and manage camel genetic resources, with a special focus on indigenous breeds.
Camel Breeds in Focus
India is home to four major camel breeds, and the NRCC focuses on their conservation and enhancement:
- Bikaneri: Known for its strength and endurance, the Bikaneri camel is often used for riding and pulling carts.
- Jaisalmeri: This breed is prized for its beauty and speed, often used in camel races and festivals.
- Kachchhi: Found in Gujarat, this breed is well-adapted to marshy areas and is known for its milk production.
- Mewari: Originating from the Mewar region of Rajasthan, the Mewari camel is versatile and used for various purposes.
By focusing on these breeds, the NRCC ensures their genetic diversity and enhances their utility in a changing socio-economic landscape.
Research and Innovations
The NRCC has made significant strides in camel research, including:
- Camel Milk Research
Camel milk has garnered global attention due to its unique nutritional properties. It is rich in vitamins, minerals, and immunoglobulins and is believed to have medicinal benefits for individuals with diabetes and autism. The NRCC has developed innovative ways to process and market camel milk products, such as ice creams, flavored milk, and cheese, which have become popular in India and abroad. - Disease Management
The NRCC has developed vaccines and diagnostic tools to combat common camel diseases like trypanosomiasis, mange, and camel pox. The center conducts regular health camps and training programs for camel herders to promote better animal health. - Breeding Programs
The center runs advanced breeding programs to improve camel productivity and maintain genetic diversity. Artificial insemination techniques have been successfully implemented to enhance breeding efficiency. - Utilization of Camel By-products
Apart from milk, the NRCC has explored the use of camel hair, leather, and manure. Camel wool is spun into high-quality yarn, while leather is used to create durable footwear and accessories. Camel manure is promoted as an eco-friendly fertilizer.
Role in Rural Development
Camels are an integral part of the livelihoods of people in Rajasthan and Gujarat, especially in desert regions where other livestock struggles to survive. The NRCC’s efforts in enhancing camel productivity and promoting camel-based enterprises have significantly contributed to rural development.
- Livelihood Support
By training herders in better camel management practices, the NRCC has empowered rural communities to improve their incomes. Camel fairs and festivals organized with the support of the NRCC also provide platforms for herders to sell their animals and products. - Camel Milk Cooperatives
The NRCC has supported the establishment of camel milk cooperatives in Rajasthan, providing a steady source of income for camel herders. The milk is collected, processed, and marketed, benefiting both producers and consumers. - Promoting Camel Tourism
The NRCC has played a pivotal role in promoting camel-based tourism in Rajasthan. Activities like camel safaris, desert camps, and cultural festivals have boosted the local economy while showcasing the importance of camels in Rajasthani culture.
Tourist Attraction
The NRCC has become a popular tourist destination in Bikaner, attracting visitors from around the world. Spread over 2000 acres, the campus is home to around 400 camels and offers a unique opportunity to learn about these fascinating animals.
Visitors can enjoy:
- Camel Rides: Experience the thrill of riding a camel through the desert landscape.
- Camel Museum: This museum provides insights into the history, biology, and utility of camels, as well as the NRCC’s research contributions.
- Camel Milk Products: Tourists can sample and purchase camel milk-based products, including ice cream and sweets.
- Camel Breeding Farm: Observe the breeding practices and interact with the herders to learn about camel care.
- Photography Opportunities: The scenic campus and the majestic camels make it a paradise for photographers.
The NRCC also hosts annual camel festivals, which feature camel beauty contests, races, and cultural programs. These events not only celebrate the camel but also provide a platform to raise awareness about their significance.
Conservation Challenges
Despite the NRCC’s efforts, the camel population in India has been declining due to factors like mechanization, habitat loss, and reduced demand for camel-based services. The NRCC is working to address these challenges by:
- Advocating for policy changes to support camel herders and camel-based industries.
- Raising awareness about the ecological and economic importance of camels.
- Encouraging young entrepreneurs to explore camel-related business opportunities.