Question

Find the correct answer based on following statements:
Statement (I): Development of a new breed 'Kashmir Merino' is a result of a large-scale introduction of 'Rambouillet' and 'Russian Merino' in Jammu and Kashmir over last 5 decades.
Statement (II): Kashmir Merino has fine wool and is suitable under long migration.

• A. Both Statement (I) and Statement (II) are correct.
• B. Both Statement (I) and Statement (II) are incorrect.
• C. Statement (I) is correct but Statement (II) is incorrect.
• D. Statement (I) is incorrect but Statement (II) is correct.

Hint:

Kashmir Merino is one of the most successful crossbreeding programs in India. It successfully combined the exceptional fine wool quality of the Russian Merino/Rambouillet with the migratory hardiness of local J&K breeds.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
This question focuses on the origin, development, and production characteristics of the Kashmir Merino sheep, which is a major synthetic fine-wool breed developed in India.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us analyze the breeding history and physiological characteristics of the Kashmir Merino:

Statement (I): Indigenous sheep breeds in Jammu and Kashmir (such as Gaddi, Bhakarwal, and Poonchi) are well-adapted to the local environment and are migratory, but they produce coarse-to-medium quality wool.
To improve wool quality, a crossbreeding program was initiated in the 1960s.
Exotic fine-wool Rambouillet rams and Russian Merino rams were crossed with local migratory ewes.
Through decades of rigorous selection and inter-se mating, a stable new breed named "Kashmir Merino" was established. Thus, Statement (I) iscorrect.

Statement (II): The Kashmir Merino breed produces premium, fine-apparel grade wool with an average fiber diameter of less than 22 microns.
Importantly, because of its local parentage, it has retained the strong hooves, physical stamina, and hardiness of indigenous migratory sheep.
This allows it to successfully undertake long annual migrations to alpine summer pastures and return to winter shelters in the valleys. Thus, Statement (II) iscorrect.
Since both statements are correct, Option (A) is the correct choice.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The correct option is (A).