Pages 15–20
Abstract
Research summary supplied by the authors
India possesses the world’s largest livestock population, positioning the country as a major hub for hide and leather production and export, with shipments valued at about US$438.85 million in 2024. The sector is supported predominantly by Zebu (Bos indicus) cattle, over 50 recognized indigenous cattle breeds, around 20 buffalo breeds, and a substantial population of non-descript animals. Leather from Zebu cattle exhibit high tensile strength, greater grain crack strength, and superior ball bursting strength when processed into leather, indicating strong resistance to tearing and mechanical stress — desirable traits for heavy-duty leather applications. These enhanced strength properties reflect the denser collagen structure and higher hide thickness typical of Zebu cattle hides. Buffalo leather is characterized by exceptional thickness and strength but comparatively coarse grain, making it ideal for durable, heavy-use leather products rather than fine or fashion goods. Genetic diversity analyses using high-density SNP markers in breeds such as Sahiwal, Gir, Kankrej, and Ongole confirm that Indian cattle possess distinct genomic backgrounds with predominantly Bos indicus ancestry and low inter-breed variation compared to Bos taurus breeds, reflecting long-term adaptation to tropical environments. Studies of skin morphology show that Bos indicus cattle have higher sweat gland density and volume than Bos taurus, contributing to enhanced heat tolerance — an indirect indicator of skin physiology that may influence hide condition under thermal stress. Although indicine genomic studies have identified genes related to heat tolerance and skin biology, direct links with key leather quality traits are still scarce, underscoring the need for hidefocused genomic selection. Indigenous cattle and buffalo hide also face challenges such as uneven thickness, coarser grain, and sensitivity to poor preslaughter management, which reduce leather yield and quality. Despite these constraints, buffalo leather remains highly valued for heavy-duty applications due to its strength and durability. Breeds such as Murrah, Jaffarabadi, Surti, and Mehsana supply hides that perform well during chrome tanning, owing to their thickness and resistance to mechanical damage. Buffalo leather strengthens India’s position in durability-driven global markets, supported by the rich genetic diversity and adaptive skin traits of indigenous cattle and buffalo breeds. However, indiscriminate crossbreeding has diluted these advantages, and hide-focused phenotyping and genomic research remain limited. Integrating standardized hide evaluation with genomic selection and breed conservation is essential to improve leather quality and industry competitiveness. Indigenous cattle and buffalo breeds possess inherent genetic and skin structural traits that yield strong and durable leather. Targeted conservation, selective breeding, and genetic evaluation can enhance leather quality, reduce defects, and strengthen India’s position in global leather markets.