Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Crossbreeding native sheep with high-producing exotic fine-wool sheep is used to improve local wool quality while maintaining adaptability to local husbandry practices.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Statement (I) outlines the development of the Kashmir Merino breed.
Over several decades, the J&K State Department crossed native migratory sheep (such as Gaddi, Bhakarwal, and Poonchi) with imported Russian Merino and Rambouillet sheep.
This systematic crossbreeding and selection resulted in the fine-wool "Kashmir Merino" breed.
Therefore, Statement (I) is correct.
Statement (II) evaluates its wool yield and migration suitability.
Although the Kashmir Merino yields less wool than purebred exotic Merinos, it was specifically selected to preserve the migratory instincts of its native parents.
Kashmir Merino sheep are highly adapted to the traditional migratory husbandry system of Jammu and Kashmir.
They travel to alpine pastures during summer and return to low-lying valleys in winter.
Therefore, the claim that they are "not suitable under long migration" is incorrect.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Statement (I) is correct but Statement (II) is incorrect.