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Chinese Yaks Stray into Indian Territory
Context:
- Recently, around 40 Chinese yaks entered Indian territory in the Demchok area of eastern Ladakh and are currently under the control of local villagers. There has been no involvement from security forces in the seizure.
- This situation mirrors past incidents where Indian yaks have been lost to the Chinese side without recovery.
Key Highlights:
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- The yaks were found in the Indian territory valley of DzomoLung in Demchok.
- Historical Context: There have been previous incidents where Indian yaks were lost to the Chinese side, with no returns reported.
Nomadic Grazing Issues:
- Nomads from both India and China have historically accessed grazing grounds across the Line of Actual Control (LAC). However, Indian nomads have faced restrictions:
- Lungkar Valley: Access was lost in 2022.
- Nilung Valley: Access was lost in 2017.
- The loss of these grazing areas has significantly affected the livelihoods of border residents, raising concerns about alternative sources of income without livestock.
- The need for a structured system to address incidents involving lost grazing lands has highlighted the challenges faced by local nomads.
About Himalayan Yaks:
- Scientific Name: Bos grunniens (domesticated) and Bos mutus (wild).
- Wild yaks can stand up to 2 metres (6.5 feet) tall at the shoulder and weigh over 800 kg (1,800 pounds). Domestic yaks are generally smaller.
- Habitat: Primarily found in the Himalayas and Tibetan Plateau, extending into parts of China, Mongolia, Nepal, and Central Asia.
- Diet: Grazes on grasses, herbs, mosses, and lichens. In winter, they may eat snow to stay hydrated.
- Fur: Dense and long, with a topcoat of black hair and a shorter, insulating undercoat. Can withstand temperatures as low as –40 °C (–40 °F).
- Yak farming has expanded beyond the Himalayas as people seek sustainable alternatives to traditional livestock.
- They are now found in various regions, including parts of India, Mongolia, and even countries outside Asia.
- Yaks and taurine cattle were crossed to produce hybrids, indicating early advanced animal husbandry practices.
- Valued for their ability to carry loads in the harsh conditions of high altitudes.
- The wild yak is classified as vulnerable by the IUCN Red List and is listed in CITES Appendix I, which bans commercial trade of the species.
Livestock Census 2019
- The 20th Livestock Census was conducted by the Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying in 2019.
- In collaboration with all States and Union Territories, the program covers all domesticated animals.
- It accounts for 16 species, including Cattle, Buffalo, Mithun, Yak, Sheep, Goat, Pig, Horse, Pony, Mule, Donkey, Camel, Dog, Rabbit, and Elephant, as well as poultry birds like Fowl, Duck, Turkeys, and other poultry.
- The total yak population was recorded at 58,000, which represents a significant decrease of 24.67% from the previous census in 2012, where the population was approximately 77,000 yaks.