Rare white-coated Malvi camel faces extinction, scientists launch rescue mission

Facing the threat of extinction, the rare Malvi camel, one of India's critically endangered camel breeds, is at the centre of a new conservation programme launched by the National Research Centre on Camel (NRCC) in Bikaner. The initiative focuses on scientific breeding and preserving the breed's genetic purity. The NRCC has acquired 12 Malvi camels, including nine females and three males, to establish a breeding herd while encouraging farmers to avoid cross-breeding. Known as India's smallest camel breed with its distinctive white or off-white coat, the Malvi has traditionally been used for transport and milk production. The centre aims to increase the population to at least 25 camels by the end of the year.

According to NRCC Principal Scientist Ved Prakash, India has nine registered camel breeds, with the Malvi, Mewari and Mevati now classified as critical. The Malvi is the smallest camel breed in India and is known for having a very uniform appearance, with most animals being white or off-white in colour and showing very little variation.

As part of the programme, the centre has acquired 12 Malvi camels, including nine females and three males, to establish a nucleus breeding herd. The NRCC is also encouraging farmers to avoid cross-breeding to preserve the breed's genetic purity. Malvi camels are prized for their milk in addition to their traditional use for transportation and load-carrying. By the end of the year, the centre wants to have at least 25 camels.