Saanen Goats Spark Valley Buzz at SKUAST-Srinagar, Wider Rollout Likely After Three-Year Study
BY WANI MAJID
Srinagar May 06,2026 :- A new entrant at Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST), Srinagar, has quickly become the talk of the town.
The recently introduced Saanen goats, a high-yield dairy breed from Switzerland, are drawing widespread attention from farmers, livestock enthusiasts, and potential buyers across the Valley.
Barely two weeks after their arrival at the university’s Mountain Research Centre for Sheep and Goat in Shuhama, the animals have triggered a surge of curiosity, with daily visitors and a steady stream of inquiries flooding the facility.
However, experts urge patience, stating that any commercial rollout is still at least three years away.A total of 24 Saanen goats, including 20 females, have been brought in under a structured research programme aimed at evaluating their adaptability to Kashmir’s climatic conditions.
Scientists will closely monitor parameters such as milk yield, disease resistance, reproductive performance, and suitability for indoor rearing.“While Kashmir and Switzerland share certain climatic similarities, it is essential to assess whether the expected milk yield of five to six litres per day can be sustained here, especially in the face of changing weather patterns,” said senior scientist Dr. Parvaiz Ahmed Reshi.
“Only after thorough evaluation can we recommend their adoption on a wider scale.”The breed’s growing popularity stems from its efficiency higher milk output with significantly lower fodder requirements.
Researchers note that Saanen goats require nearly one-fifth the feed of a cow, making them an attractive option in a region where fodder shortages hover around 60 percent.
Known for their calm temperament and adaptability, Saanen goats can be reared in compact indoor spaces, an advantage in Kashmir’s high-altitude and land-constrained environment.
Their docile nature also makes them suitable for household-level rearing, even during harsh winters.Originating from Switzerland’s Saanen Valley, these medium-to-large goats are typically white or cream in colour and are primarily bred for milk production.
Under proper management, they can yield up to six litres of milk daily and often have a high twinning rate.Scientists are also exploring crossbreeding possibilities with local Bakerwal goats to enhance productivity while preserving resilience.
Additionally, the milk’s nutritional profile—rich in A2 beta-casein protein and easier digestibility—has attracted interest for its potential health benefits.For now, the excitement remains tempered with caution. Researchers will continue studying the breed across seasons before making any recommendations.
Until then, Saanen goats remain a promising yet experimental addition to Kashmir’s livestock sector.