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International and National Policies in support of Biodiversity Conserving Livestock Keepers & Preparatory meeting for the Convention of Biological Diversity, Conference of Parties 10 Senaapathy Kangayam Cattle Research Foundation, Kuttapalayam, Tiruppur District, Tamil Nadu, India 13 to 15 August 2010

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List of Contents List of Contens…………………………………………………………………………2 Acknowledgement……………………………………………………………………..2 Preamble………………………………………………………………………………..4 Programme………………………………………………………………………….5-10 Documentation…………………………………………………………………….11-27 Recommendations of the two days Workshop.............………………………..28-29 List of participants….…………………………...…………………………………30-31 Pressrelease….……………………………….…………………………………...32-33

Acknowledgements The workshop was organized jointly by SKCRF and SEVA with financial support received from LPP, Germany. It was hosted by Senaapathy Kangayam Cattle Research Foundation along with “Palluyir Foundation” at its Foundation Farm at Kuttapalayam (TN). Gratitude is expressed to all the LIFE Network members who contributed for the successful conduct of the event.

Fotos Titel: Ilse Koehler-Rollefson In the text: Antje Feldmann, Kerstin Juschkat-Schafhaupt

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International and National Policies in support of Biodiversity Conserving Livestock

Keepers & Preparatory meeting for the Convention of Biological Diversity,

Conference of Parties 10

Senaapathy Kangayam Cattle Research Foundation, Kuttapalayam, Tiruppur District, Tamil Nadu, India

13 to 15 August 2010

Documentation

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Preamble

Pastoralists are the guardians of biological diversity, as recently acknowledged by the FAO (2009). 1 Contrary to other producers, they generate food, fibre and fuel by transforming natural vegetation, instead of replacing it with crops. They also make an immeasurable contribution to food security by using their highly adapted livestock and ancient knowledge systems to access resources that are out of reach of any other land use strategy, such as the high alpine pastures in the Himalayas and remote corners of the Thar Desert. Because of their crucial role in stewarding biological diversity, the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) is an extremely pertinent international agreement for pastoralists. This legally binding framework commits signatory states to respect, preserve and maintain knowledge, innovations and practices of indigenous and local communities embodying traditional lifestyles relevant for the conservation and sustainable use of biological diversity. Unfortunately, pastoralists have never made a concerted effort to claim their rights under the CBD. However, recently some communities, including the Raika, Samburu, Pashtoon and Lingayat, have initiated the development of Biocultural Community Protocols to invoke their rights under the CBD and other international and national laws. This initiative needs to be supported, expanded, and be brought to the attention of the authorities concerned with the conservation of biological diversity. The next meeting of the CBD, the COP 10, will be held in Nagoya (Japan) from 18-29 October 2010. This will be followed by the COP 11 that is planned to be organized by India in 2012. The LIFE Network intends to develop a short-term (Nagoya) and long-term (India 2012) strategy for highlighting the roles, rights and responsibilities of pastoralists and livestock keepers under the CBD with the ultimate goal of saving spaces for pastoralist livestock keeping in our rapidly developing landscapes. We would also like to share the existing experiences with the establishment of Biocultural community protocols and motivate other communities to adopt this approach. Because of these facts LIFE-Network had a planning meeting in India from 13-15 August which was hosted by the Kangayam Cattle Research Foundation which is located in Tamil Nadu, near Coimbatore.

1 FAO. 2009. Livestock Keepers. Guardians of Biodiversity. FAO Animal Production and Health Paper 167,

Rome.

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Programm

Day I: Friday, 13 August, 2010

9.45

Lighting of Kuthuvilakku Mrs. Saraswathy Sivasenapathy & Dr. Ilse Köhler-Rollefson, League for Pastoral Peoples and Endogenous Livestock Development and global Coordinator, LIFE Network

9.55

Prayer song ( Tamil Thai Vazhthu)

10.00

Welcome Address Mr. Sivasenapathy Swaminathan, Managing Trustee, Palluyir Foundation and Chairman,Senaapathy Kangayam Cattle Research Foundation, Kuttapalayam.

10.10

Felicitation Mr. Vidial Sekar, Member of Legislative Assembly, Kangayam.

10.20

Mr. R. M. Palaniswami, Member of Legislative Assembly, Modakuruchi

10.30

Presidential Address and Release of Book on Biocultural Community Protocols Mr. Saminathan, Honourable Minister for Highways and Minor Ports, Government of Tamil Nadu

10.40

Release of Booklet on Livestock Keepers Rights in T amil P.Thangaraju, Vice Chancellor ,TANUVAS

10.50 Submission of Memorandum and Bargur Biocultural Pro tocol to Animal Husbandry Minister Benitto Paulraj, Malaimadu Pullikulam Cattle Herders Association

11.20

Vote of Thanks Dr. Ilse Köhler Rollefson, League for Pastoral Peoples and Endogenous Livestock Development, and global coordinator, LIFE Network

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Achieving Recognition and Rights for Pastoralists i n the context of the

Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD Chair: Dr. Ilse Köhler-Rollefs on, LPP

11:30

The role of pastoralists in biodiversity conservati on Fernando Garcia, Coordinator of the Spanish Shepherd Association, Asturias, Spain

12:00 Pastoralists : Modern and Mobile Dr.Saverio Krätli, International Institute of Environment and Development, London, UK and Editor, Nomadic Peoples

12:30 The CBD process and Biocultural Protocols. What is at stake at Nagoya? Kabir Bavikatte, Natural Justice, South Africa

13:00-14:00 Lunch break

14:00 Presentation of Biocultural Community Protocols � Raika - Hanwant Singh and Babulal Raika � Banni Buffalo breeders – Dr. Sabyasachi Das and Ramesh Bhatti � Samburu – Dr. Pat Lanyasunya � Bargur Lingayat - Mr. Alagumalai, Mr. Sivasenapathy and

Mr.Kenjappan, 15:00 Question and Answer Session

15:15 Panel Discussion: How can we make the most of Biocu ltural Protocols for the Implementation of Livestock Keepe rs‘ Rights? Kabir Bavikatte, Kamal Kishore, Vivekanandan

16:30 Wrap-up of the day’s discussion and outlook for d ay 2

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Day II: Saturday, 14 th August, 2010 9:30 Tamil Thaai Vazhthu,

9.35 Welcome address, Mr. Manisekar,Vice President,SEVA

9.45 Role of Livestock in Empowerment of the Farming Community Chief guest: Dr. P. Murugesa Boopathi, Vice Chancellor, Tamilnadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore

10.00 Bio Diversity: The Elixir of Life Dr.G.Kumaravelu, I.F.S. Retd, Former Chief Conservator of Forests, Full time member Planning Commission, Govt of Tamilnadu

10.25 Dr. Chandrahassan, Dean, Tamilnadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Namakkal.

10.35 Dr.L.P.Swaminathan, Former HoD, Agricultural Economics, Tamilnadu Agricultural University,Trustee, Senaapathy Kangayam Cattle Research Foundation, Kuttuppalayam,

10.45 Mr.A.Mohan, B.Sc, Agri, President Mettur West Bank Canal Farmers Association, President Sakthi Sugars Ryots Association.

10.55 Mr.Appu K.Palaniswamy, President, Palayakottai Panchyat President

11.05 Vote of thanks – Mr. V. Palaniswamy, Founder Secretary, Horticultural Crop Growers Association ,Trustee ,Senaapathy Kangayam Cattle Research Foundation.

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Developing a National Policy on Protection of local livestock breeds and Livestock Keepers’ Rights

11.20 Keynote address: P reven tion of extinction of breeds:

experience in Germany Ms. Antje Feldmann, Coordinator, Society for the Conservation of Old and Endangered Animal Breeds, Germany

11.45 History of Livestock Keepers Rights and why a Natio nal policy on local livestock breeds and Livestock Keep ers’ Rights is needed? Vivekanandan SEVA / LIFE Network India Coordinator

12.10

Intellectual Property Rights and Animal Genetic Res ources – how do we protect the rights of livestock keepers Dr. Kerekoppa Ramesha, Senior Scientist, National Dairy Research Institute

12.30

Experiences with Geographical Indications of livest ock products Dr. Sadana, Senior Scientist, National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources, Karnal

12.50

Approach a nd Objectives of the Rain fed Livestock Network (RLN) Dr. Kamal Kishore, RLN Coordinator

13.10

Herd registration , breed registration and how it b enefits communities Discussion facilitator Dr Iyu, Professor & Head ,Sandyanella Sheep Research Centre

13. 25

World women Pastoralists Meet Mr. Lalji, MARAG,Ahmedabad

13.35

Lunch break

14.30

Afternoon session Chair Dr. Sadana, N.B.A.G.R.

14. 30 Pathe Paathshaalaa-The informal moving class for pastoralists (since 2008) Dr. Balaram Sahu, Orissa (presented by Dr. Sadana)

14.30

Working Groups on : Elements of a National Policy on Livestock Keepers Rights Facilitator Vivekanandan,SEVA

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15:30

Presentations of Working Groups and discussion abou t future strategy

17:00 The Kuttapalayam Cove nant?

18:00

Wrap Up Dr. Sadana and Kabir Bavikatte

Day III: Sunday, 15 August, 2010

Independence Day – Flag Hoisting and Salutation

Securing and Positioning the LIFE Network (closed meeting, only for LIFE members or at special invitation)

9:00

Welcome P.Vivekanandan, SEVA

9:15

Summary and Minutes of Meeting held at Jaisalmer Dr. Sadana

9.30

Vision for the future of the LIFE Network Ilse Köhler-Rollefson

10 .00

Discussion on Membership criteria and application p rocess Facilitator : Kamal Kishore

10.30

2010 Breeders Awards and discussion Mr. P.Vivekanandan

11:00

Research Collaboration between LIFE Network & RLN Ms. Bhavana Rao & Dr Kandasamy

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11.30

Strengthening LIFE Network through proposals (for N ation al register on Profiles / information of livestock ke epers / communities on in-situ conservation of breeds Discussion Facilitatator : by P.Vivekanandan

12:00

Resolutions and close up of LIFE meeting

12:30

Informal Discussion and meeting with Organic Scientist Dr. G. Nammalvar, President, Indian Organic Agriculture Movement

Vote of Thanks Mr. G. Gunadharan,Trustee, Senaapathy KangayamCattle Research Foundation.

13:00 Lunch

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International and National Policies in support of Biodiversity Conserving Livestock Keepers &

Preparatory meeting for the Convention of Biologica l Diversity, Conference of Parties 10

Documentation Day 1: August 13, 2010 INAUGURATION Three days’ workshop on 13-15 August 2010 at Kuttapalayam village was inaugurated by lighting of a lamp by Mrs. Saraswathi Sivasenapathy, Trustee Senaapathy Kangayam Cattle Research Foundation (SKCRF) and Dr. Ilse Koehler Rollefson, Founder LIFE Network and L.P.P. Germany. Mr. Sivasenapathy, Chairman SKCRF and Managing Trustee Palluyir Foundation, welcomed the gathering. He spoke on the role of his family in the evolution of the Kangayam breed and the activities of SKCRF. Palluyir Foundation of which he is the Managing Trustee is an NGO working on Biodiversity. He said Palluyir Foundation’s organizations namely SKCRF and Kangayam Breeders Society work on Kangayam Cattle, and Korangadu (a unique Silvi Pasture system of land use in Kongu Nadu, Tamil Nadu). The Palluyir Foundation also works for the conservation of Bargur cattle in the Anthiyur block of Erode district (of Tamil Nadu) in the name of “Bargur Hill Cattle Breeders Association”. Eradication of invasive alien species like Lantana camara and Prospious juliflora and Parthenium, raising awareness on the need for conservation of the highy endangered Bargur cattle breed, representing the genuine grievances of the livestock keepers to the administration etc. Mr. Pongalur N. Palaniswamy, Minister for Animal Husbandry Government of Tamil Nadu, appreciated the activities of SKCRF and recalled his long association with the trustees. He promised the establishment of an in situ breeding and conservation centre for Kangayam cattle in Kangayam tract after the demand of Mr. Sivasenapathy. Mr. Saminathan, Minister for Highways plus a Kangayam breeder himself and the local representative, said he was highly thrilled and happy to be part of such a meeting organized by SKCRF, SEVA and LIFE Network. He also highlighted the importance of local breeds, especially Kangayam in its home tract and assured all support from the Govt. of Tamil Nadu. Mr.Vidial Sekar M.L.A. of Kangayam constiuency, Mr. R.M.Palaniswamy M.L.A. of Modakuruchi, who has the distinction of having raised the issue of

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conservation of native livestock breeds numerous times in the Tamil Nadu Legislative assembly, appreciated holding the workshop within his constituency. Prof. Thangaraju, Vice Chancellor, Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, spoke on the needs and means to conserve native breeds and assured all support on Research and Extension for SKCRF.

Release of a Booklet on Livestock Keepers Rights in Tamil Prof. Thangaraju, VC released a booklet on Rights of Livestock Keepers in Tamil language as translated and printed by SEVA, an NGO at Madurai. He also emphasized the need for conservation of Kangayam cattle breed, Korangadu pasture land system for the benefit of the livestock and as heritage sites.

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Memorandum of Pastoralists The Minister for Animal Husbandry, Mr.Pongalur N.Palaniswamy, recalled the visit of Bargur Livestock Keepers in the month of July with Mr. Karthikeya Sivasenapathy, Managing Trustee Senaapathy Kangayam Cattle Research foundation and Secretary Mr. Sivasenapathy Natarajan of Palluyir Foundation. He also informed that he would take up the grazing issue of pastoralists in forest areas with the state forest minister for doing the needful. Earlier, Mr Benito Palraj, Member of Malai Madu Cattle Herders Association at Theni, submitted a memorandum on Pastoralists grazing issue to the minister. Who is the Architect of Kangayam cattle breed? During his speech Mr. Rajkumar Mandradiar, Ex-MLA, talked about the improvement made to Kangayam Cattle. Kangayam cattle breed was improved by Rai Bahadur Sarkarai Mandradiyar, the great grand-father of Rajkumar Mandradiar, who struggled for 50 years in maintaining the breed which was improved by selective breeding with the old Kangayam breed and Amrithamahal. He is the 34th Pattagar of the Mandradiar Family and was highly appreciative of the activities of his niece. Mr. Karthikeya Sivasenapathy, Managing Trustee

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SKCRF, belongs to the same family. Some of the salient features of the breed are that the calf born will be brownish in color and after a few months it will turn to grey color. The hump of the animal goes down after its castration. It is the best draught breed in South India. The Korangadu pasture land is established in calcareous soil and it contributes supply of calcium which is necessary for making the bones of cattle stronger. However due to Government Land Ceiling Act a portion of pasture land has been distributed to the landless poor. Now this family has to restrict the number of animals to less than 100 compared to 4.000 numbers maintained earlier. Dr. Ilse Koehler Rollefson, Founder of LIFE Network, proposed a vote of thanks and gave away mementos to the dignitaries.

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TECHNICAL SESSIONS

Session -1 Achieving Recognition and Rights for Pastoralists i n the Context of CBD Chairperson : Dr. Ilse Koehler Rollefson, LPP The Technical Session began at 12 noon, wherein the following presentations were made: “Role of Pastoralists in Biodiversity Conservation ” Mr. Fernando Garcia, Coordinator of the Spanish Shepherd Association, Asturias, Spain Mr. Fernando presented details on sheep pastoralism in Spain. Narrating that there are 250 million pastoralists across the world now, he said that in Europe there are 594 cattle breeds of which 464 are local and 130 breeds have become extinct. He elaborated various policies such as CAP (1962), CBD-UNDP (1982), Environmental measures with CAP during 1992, FAO Global Plan of Action for Animal Genetic Resources during 2007 and a rural development plan with CAP. He explained the facilities created for shepherds which include exclusive passage routes for migratory herds including bridges and roads for smooth passage for animals. He also explained shepherd schools to learn and transfer knowledge from elder shepherds to youth by living together for five months. The sheep are used for cleaning woods (jungle area). He explained some schemes for livestock keepers like providing 110 Euros per animal per year in the European Union. Subsidy is provided to sheep keepers for improving the environment. Around 100,000 kilometer length of passage is earmarked only for sheep, including certain bridges used only for passage of sheep. “Pastoralists: Modern and Mobile” Dr. Saverio Kratli, International Institute of Environment and Development, London; and Editor, Nomadic Peoples Dr. Saverio Kratli presented the 2009 book Modern and Mobile, produced by the International Institute for Environment and Development (IIED, UK) as part of a programme to secure pastoral mobility in Africa, funded by the Howard G. Buffet Foundation. Saverio’s presentation was organised in three parts. Part one explained how mobility is the key to ‘intensify’ animal production. He explained how specialised pastoralists distinguish several behaviours, each with its own

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name, within what can only be called ‘mobility’ in English. Their differentiation within ‘mobility’ focuses not on degrees of intensity but on its purpose, with most of these purposes being related to production. Based on this principle, Saverio offered a classification of ‘mobility’ based on three main classes of purpose: i. production, for optimising animal nutrition; ii. Exchange, for reaching markets; and iii. Escape, for getting away from droughts, conflict, or epidemics. Most of pastoral mobility is for production not for escaping poor pasture or drought, as evident from the fact that specialised pastoralists in the dryest rangeland environments (e.g. the Sahel) are typically more mobile during the wet season as during the dry season. The second part of the presentation explained how the most specialised dryland producers are also those more difficult and expensive to reach, and consequently less represented in the ‘data’ available on pastoralism. That our understanding of pastoralism is affected by this bias is something that should not be overlooked. Finally, part three explained how mobility, and particularly strategic mobility for production, is closely linked to breeding practices and domestic animal diversity.

“The CBD Process and Biocultural Protocol: what is at stake at Nagoya” Mr. Kabir Bavikatte, Natural Justice, South Africa Mr. Kabir presented that livestock keepers managing their animals as part of the local ecosystem also fall into the domain of the UN Convention on Biological

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Diversity. They represent indigenous and local communities embodying traditional lifestyles relevant for the conservation and sustainable use of biological diversity as described in Article 8(j) of the Convention. Therefore they are entitled to respect and support for their lifestyles by all party signatories to the Convention. However, so far livestock keepers have not invoked their rights under this legal provision and remained invisible to the bodies and working groups that direct, supervise and monitor the implementation of the UN Convention on Biological Diversity, such as the Ad-Hoc Working Group on Article 8(j) and the Working Group on Access and Benefit Sharing. “Biocultural community protocols” are an emerging approach that can help to rectify this unsatisfactory situation. There is the high likelihood that they will become a part of the Nagoya Protocol on Access and Benefit Sharing that is expected to be adopted during the Conference of the Parties 10 of the UN Convention on Biological Diversity in October, 2010 in Nagoya, Japan.

Session -2 Presentation of Biocultural Community Protocols Chairperson : Dr. Ilse Koehler Rollefson, LPP Protocols: Community representatives of traditional livestock keepers from different regions who developed community protocols along with community members (facilitated by NGOs) analyzed their rich tradition of knowledge, culture and institutions around livestock keeping and tried to link with national laws and international treaties (Article 8-j of CBD, FAO Global plan of Action on Conservation of Animal Genetic Resources 2007, etc.) for exercising their rights in order to continue their lifestyle while conserving their knowledge, ecosystem and their breeds in-situ. Following presentations were made, spread over the day-1 and day-2.

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1. “Banni Buffalo Breeders” by Sabyasachi Das and Ramesh Bhatti Dr. Das from Sahjeevan NGO presented about the background of Banni grass-land which stretched over 3200 km in the Kutch region of Gujarat. It was gifted with 240 types of migratory birds and 32 species of grass. During 1960s the region had domestic animal wealth of 90% cattle and 10% buffalo. Introduction of Prosopis julioflora reversed the situation and now the buffalo population has increased to 90%. Local people Maldharis, largely Sindhu muslims are pastoralists and women have excellent skills in handicrafts. The community Protocol demands conservation of Banni buffalo, Kankrej cattle, eradication of Prosopis and participatory conservation of Banni grass lands.

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2. “Samburu livestock Keepers” Dr. Pat Lanyasunya, Kenya Dr Pat Lanyasunya from Kenya has presented about Samburu pastoralists in Kenya who keep cattle, camels, sheep and goats and they are continually moving to find best grazing lands, avoid disease or raiders. Introduction of exotic breeds such as Boran, Sahiwal, Friesian, Ayrshire, Jersey cattle, Dorper sheep affected their local breeds especially Red Maasai Sheep. Some of the crisis need to be addressed are: integrate wild life conservation along with indigenous breeds of livestock which over time have been grazing together, sensitization of younger population on indigenous knowledge and culture, government policies on education to embrace a pastoralists-friendly environment where school programmes allow pastoralists to cope up with the rest in more settled communities through time management and syllabus review; and establishing a National Conservation Authority and Trust fund with the help of donors for participatory conservation of animal genetic resources and for protection of rights of indigenous peoples based on action plans jointly prepared with the communities. Dr. Pat further narrated that the communities resolved that their free prior informed consent must be sought before any new activities are undertaken in

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their land. The community demands a more accountable approach from researchers where feedback is ensured as well as an elaborate benefit plan for communities. Before any new undertaking of activities it must be preceded by an environmental impact assessment; and must make provisions for good veterinary services and creation of livestock market centers, at the least.

3. “Bargur Cattle Breeders” Mr. P. Vivekanandan, SEVA and Mr. Sivasenapthy, Trustee ‘Palluyir Foundation’ and Secretary of ‘Bargur Hill Cattle Breeders Association’ Mr. Vivekanandan presented about Bargur Lingayats communities in Bargur forest zone of Anthiyur block of Tamil Nadu state. There are 30,000 Lingayat families who speak kannada are owning herds of cattle and buffalo. Earlier they were hunters and now settled with cattle husbandry and raise dry land crops in marginal lands. They form temporary herds of cattle by pooling from the owners during rainy season starting from July to Dec and graze in forests. The population of their animals is reduced to less than 20,000 compared to a few lakhs earlier. Joint Forest Management programme of the Govt. has prevented them grazing in forests and it has led to drastic reduction of local breed animals. Infestation of forests with Lantana camara, an invasive alien species has also reduced the grazing area of both cattle and wild elephants leading to entry of elephants to villages in search of fodder or drinking water. The protocol highlights rich knowledge of communities using herbal medicine for human and animals and customary institutions with rituals around their cattle. Mr. Sivasenapathy, Secretary of the Bargur Hill Cattle Breeders Association and Trustee ‘Palluyir

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Foundation’ spoke on the activities undertaken. The visit arranged for the forest minister Mr.Selvaraj to Bargur hills to have better understanding of the situation of livestock keepers and to demand penning rights was also highlighted. The visit of 7 members of the “Bargur hill Cattle Breeders Association” and Secretary Mr. Sivasenapathy, Mr. Karthikeya managing trustee SKCRF and Secretary “Palluyir Foundation” to submit a memorandum to the Animal Husbandry Minister Mr.Pongalur Palaniswamy was discussed. 4. “Raika – Camel breeders ” Mr. Hanwant Singh and Babulal Raika Mr. Hanwant Singh and Babulal Raika explained about Raika Community and their pastoral life in semi-arid region of Rajathan. They maintain important livestock breeds such as Nari and Kankrej cattle; Boti, Marwari and Bhagli sheep; Marwari and Sirohi goat; Mewari, Malvi, Bikaneri and Jaisalmeri camels. They have been using Aravalli hills as grazing area for their animals during rainy season till the point of declaration of Kumbalgarh Sanctuary. Now they are facing crisis as the forest area over the last one decade has been closed for animal grazing. Their rich knowledge and traditional institutions of forest/wild animals conservation were neglected by Forest Department leading to deterioration of pastoral culture and biodiversity. Their protocol calls for including their breeds diversity and their traditional knowledge in peoples biodiversity Register and recognizing their grazing rights as per Forest Rights Act 2007 in order to arrest reduction of population of camels and local breeds.

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Day 2, August 14, 2010 Welcome address and presentations by Dignitaries Mr. Sivasenapathy, Chairman Senaapathy Kangayam Cattle Research Foundation welcomed the dignitaries and the participants. The morning session was graced by the Chief Guest Mr. Murugesha Boopathy, Vice Chancellor, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University. Thematic presentations were made by other dignitaries Dr. G. Kumuravelu I.F.S. and former Principal Chief Conservator of forests and presently Member Planning Commission, Prof. Swaminathan, former HoD, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University and trustee Senaapathy Kangayam Cattle Research Foundation, Mr. Karthikeya Sivasenapathy Managing trustee SKCRF and Secretary Palluyir Foundation, Mr. Chandrahassan, Dean, Tamilnadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Mr. Sivakumar Mandradiar, Mr. A. Mohan, President Mettur West Bank Canal Association, Mr. Palaniswamy, Secretary, Horticultural Association, and trustee SKCRF, Mr. Appu Palaniswamy President, local body. Dr. G. Kumaravelu said that Bio-diversity is not just the ‘Elixir’ of life but ‘life itself’. Vote of thanks was presented by V. Palaniswamy.

Session -3 Developing a National Policy on Protection of Local Livestock Breeds and Livestock Keepers Rights Chairperson : Kabir Bavikatte During this session presentations were made by Antje Feldmann, Vivekanandan, K P Ramesha, D K Sadana, Kamal Kishore and Lalji. Keynote address– “Prevention of extinction of breed s: Experience in Germany” Ms. Antje Feldmann, Coordinator, Society for Conservation of Old and Endangered breeds, Germany Ms. Antje Feldmann, Coordinator, of Society for Conservation of Old and Endangered breeds, Germany has presented her experience in Germany over the last two decades: in situ conservation, publication of the Red List of rare breeds, marketing label for rare breeds, conservation by of usage the animal products of local breeds, ecotourism and rescue resorts. The Arkfarm-Project with 85 farms in Germany helps to maintain rare breeds in agricultural enterprises. Actually, by the European NGO-Network about 400 Arkcentres at 400 places are registered. Further steps have to be taken, to maintain rare

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breeds more effectively in the context of biosphere reserves and landscape protection services. High public interest comes up annually by the proclamation of the “Rare Breed of the Year”. “History of Livestock Keepers Rights and Why a Nati onal Policy on local livestock breeds and Livestock Keepers Rights is required?” Mr. P. Vivekanandan, SEVA & India-Coordinator for LIFE Network Mr. Vivekanandan highlighted the historical perspectives and explained the need to recognize and protect the rights of the livestock keepers in respect of their contribution made in conserving, improving and making available native breeds and associated knowledge/ practices/ innovations towards further development of animal genetic resources. It is also necessary to protect Livestock Keepers’ Rights to arrest extinctinction of domestic animal species and breeds which are crucial to cope with the changing environment and new surfacing diseases.

He further added that India has ratified the CBD and FAO - Global Plan of Action (the outcome of Interlaken Conference on Animal Genetic Resources held during September, 2007) to recognize livestock keepers role for sustainable use, development and conservation of local livestock breeds. In order to fulfill the international obligations of the country and to protect the local livestock breeds

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and the rights of livestock keepers, Vivekanandan suggested to establish a Government body which can work closely with communities and NGOs by coordinating with various Govt. departments (line departments) in order to save local livestock breeds and to protect Livestock Keepers Rights, through an Act of Parliament.

“IPR & AnGR – How do we Protect the Rights of Lives tock Keepers” Dr. Kerekoppa Ramesha, Scientist of NDRI, Bangalore Dr. Ramesha presented that local livestock breeds are bestowed with unique characteristics. Identification of genes for disease resistance, heat tolerance, ability to survive and thrive under stressful and low input conditions in local breeds will go a long way not only in the advancement of science and livestock production but also pave way for patenting of gene sequences for these traits. If proper internationally accepted legal system is developed with respect to use of livestock biodiversity, patenting of novel genes will bring about economic benefit to the livestock keepers in the IPR regime through benefit sharing thus becoming a boon to livestock keepers. However granting of extensive patents to multinational companies in relation to livestock breeding could affect the breeding rights of livestock keepers. He stressed the need for establishing National Authority for protection of breeds and livestock keepers rights through an Act of Parliament for enabling registration of breeds, to act as clearing house on breeds exchange and for recognition of breed conserving communities.

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“Geographical Indications of Livestock Products ” Dr. D K Sadana, Scientist of NBAGR, Karnal Dr. Sadana explained the meaning and relevance of Geographical Indications (GIs) which he said are signs, symbols or expressions used to indicate that a product or service originates in a country/region or specific place. A GI highlights the geographical origin or geographical differentiation of a good and the characteristics derived from it. GI does not protect the breed or genetic material per se but adds commercial value to the breed reared in a particular region, benefits its owners and, in the process, helps in conservation of the breed. Geographical indications prevent all others other than the producers of goods from the original region from using that particular geographical indication incorrectly. Trademarks and geographical indications could be used for value addition and thus aid to protect registered breeds.

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“Approach and Objectives of the Rainfed Livestock N etwork (RLN )” Dr. Kamal Kishore and Ms. Bhavana Rao Dr. Kamal and Ms Bhavana shared a presentation on an action research proposal on one of their thematic focus areas “Breed Conservation & Promotion.” The purpose of the presentation was to share the concept behind the research pilot, how feasible it is, and possible collaboration with LIFE network partners in various locations across India. Dr. Kamal opened the presentation by giving a brief about the Rainfed Livestock Network, it’s partners, and the approach it is taking to bring in appropriate policy change for livestock development in India. He stressed that RLN is mainly focussed on livetsock production systems that are present in Rain-fed regions of the country (i.e. specifically the arid and semi arid states of the country). It is well known that in the arid areas as much as 70% of GDP contribution comes from Livestock, while, in semi-arid regions it is 40%. Even though there are various areas that need attention in livestock, RLN is currently focusing on five main thematic areas viz. ‘Breed conservation & promotion’ ‘Commons and Livestock’, ‘Livestock Markets’, Livestock heath delivery services’, and ‘Backyard poultry’ to address emerging concerns in Livestock based livelihoods in a holistic manner. This was followed by a detailed presentation on the Action research pilot which RLN proposes to take up. The encouraging point was that many partners felt that such a project which combines both social and research aspects is very much needed. From the partners, 7 groups namely Sahaja Samrudha, SKCRF, MARAG, LPPS, SAHAJEEVAN, Deoni Cattle Breeders Association, Ram Mohan Surabhi (farmers group from Andhra) accepted and interacted in detail. The participants held discussions based on their local experiences for further improving the project.

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“Breed documentation and Peoples Biodiversity Regis ter” Dr. Yatendra Singh, Project Manager, National Biodiversity Authority, Chennai Dr. Singh made a brief presentation on the need to document and save biodiversity. He narrated the NBA approach to document local breeds through Biodiversity Management Committees and People’s Biodiversity register. He suggested looking for more details at the NBA site www.nbaindia.org Mobile schools for pastoral communities Dr. Sadana made a brief presentation on the details on “Pathe Pathshala – the informal moving class for Pastoralists” submitted by Dr. Balaram Sahu, Orissa. “Global gathering of women pastoralists” , Mr. Lalji, MARAG , Ahmedabad, briefed about global gathering of women pastoralists from 21-26 November at Mera, near Ahmedabad, Gujarat. Women pastoralists from across Asia and the world will meet to share knowledge, discuss common concerns and solutions for the challenges they face. The goal of this gathering is to contribute to the empowerment of women pastoralists, who have so far been under-represented in decision-making in their communities but also in pastoralist for national and international level. The gathering will be an opportunity for women pastoralists. This event will be coordinated by MARAG with the support of IFAD, WISP, ILC, LPP and WAMIP. Dr. Punniyamoorthy from TANUVAS narrated about Centre on Indigenous Veterinary Medicine at Thanjavur, TN. The Centre is dedicated for testing and dissemination of ethno-veterinary practices. At the end, the recommendations of the two day workshop were discussed in detail and finalized, as presented next.

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Recommendations of the two days Workshop

“Kuttapalayam Confirmation”

We, members of the LIFE Network that represents the interests of small-scale and biodiversity conserving livestock keepers and other stakeholders, have met here in Kuttapalayam, Tamil Nadu (India) from 13-15 August 2010 and confirm that:

1. Our breeds make an enormous contribution to food production and food sovereignty. Their mobility and hardiness allow them to access distant and remote

grazing areas especially in deserts, marginal lands and mountainous regions that

could otherwise not be put to productive use. They convert the vegetation in these

areas into milk, meat and other products that sustain the urban population.

2. Our breeds can utilize small and dispersed patches of vegetation, for instance along roadsides, and many types of household and crop wastes, a capacity that is of

crucial value for the economic empowerment and dignity of women.

3. Our breeds are essential components of organic farming systems through the production of manure. Outside organic production systems too, their manure

decreases the need for artificial fertilizer and they thereby mitigate climate change.

4. Our breeds are important source of draught power which saves on fossil fuels. 5. Our breeds act as insurance against drought and have the capacity to adapt to

climate change due to their tolerance of climatic extremes.

6. Our breeds are the basis for sustainable livestock production in the future, since they are independent of grains and do not compete with humans for food.

7. Our breeds are integral part of the environment and in many cases necessary to sustain wildlife biological diversity as well as balancing eco-systems.

8. Our breeds are product of traditional knowledge and sustainable lifestyles. They represent biological diversity whose survival is intimately tied to traditional

knowledge, innovations and practices. They therefore fall under the domain of the

United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity (Article 8-j) to which India is a

signatory.

9. We call on: The upcoming 10th Conference of the Parties (COP 10) to the Convention on

Biological Diversity (CBD) in Nagoya to focus attention on implementing in-situ

conservation of traditional livestock keeping (pastoralist and smallholder) systems,

in accordance with Article 8-j of the CBD and to acknowledge the significant

29

contribution of local livestock keeping communities in conserving biological

diversity.

10. The Government of India as a signatory to the CBD to recognize the linkage between in-situ conservation of its domestic animal diversity and secure access to

common property resources. We request a series of state-wise consultations with

the concerned institutions governing these resources, including, and maybe led by

the Ministry of Environment and Forests, Department of Animal Husbandry,

Department of Rural Development and Revenue Department, to arrive at a solution

that will enable in-situ conservation of livestock breeds.

11. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) to step up implementation of the Global Plan of Action on Animal Genetic Resources by

enhanced support for Strategic Priorities 5 (promoting agro-ecosystems approaches

to the management of animal genetic resources) and 6 (supporting indigenous and

local production systems and associated knowledge systems of importance to the

maintenance and sustainable use of animal genetic resources). Furthermore, we

demand official inclusion of livestock keepers in the developing debate about the

future of livestock production as evidenced by the State of Food and Agriculture

2009.

12. Development organizations (such as IFAD, IUCN, Ford Foundation, EU) to support programmes of work that will enable local communities to establish

Biocultural Community Protocols and thereby invoke Livestock Keepers’

Rights that are necessary for them to continue acting as guardians of livestock

biodiversity.

13. Governments to endorse and support the implementation of Livestock Keepers’ Rights.

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Signatories / List of Participants: Lokhit Pashu Palak Sansthan SEVA Sahjeevan Senaapathy Kangayam Cattle Research Foundation (SKCRF) Palluyir Foundation Natural Justice MARAG League for Pastoral Peoples Rainfed Livestock Network SAMBURU Spanish Federation of Shepherds Banni Pashu Uchherak Maldhari Sangathan Deoni Cattle Breeders’ Association Bargur Hill Cattle Breeders Association Malaimadu Cattle Breeders Association Vechur Breed Conservation Trust Centre for Ethno-Veterinary Practices, Thanjavur Jaisalmer Camel Breeders’ Association Raika Community Panchayat, Pali Society for Conservation of Old and Endangered Livestock Breeds, Germany World Alliance of Mobile Indigenous People

List of Participants for LIFE Network meeting on 13-15Aug 2010

at Kuttapalayam

Sl. No.

Name of Participants &Address

01. Antje Feldmann (Ms) German Society for the Conservation of Traditional Breeds, Germany

02. Kerstin Juschkat-Schafhaupt, Community Member, Germany

03. Arivudai Nambi, M S Swaminathan Research Foundation, Chennai

04. Arun Mahalingam Trustees, SKCRF

05. B S Borgaonkar, Veterinary Officer Dept of Animal Husbandry, Lattur, Maharashtra

06-07.

Benitto Palraj , Sriramu, Pulikulam pastoralists from Theni

08. Bhavana Rao (Ms), Rainfed Livestock Network,Hyderabad

09. Chandrahasan, Dean, Namakkal Veterinary College, TN

10. D K Sadana , NBAGR, Karnal

11. D Punniyamoorthy, TANUVAS, Thanjavur

12. Devapprakash,Palaniswamy Trustee, SKCRF

13-16.

E.Sivasenapthy, Kenchan, Ashoka Swamiji, and Members from Bargur Pastoralists, Erode, TN

17. Fernando Garcia, Spanish Shepherds Federation, Spain

18- 19.

Geeta Desai (Ms) Ph 9428411946 Manjal Bharwad M-09978394795, Ahmedabad

20. Gunadharan Govindaswamy Trustee, SKCRF

21- Hanwant Singh,

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22. Babulala Raika LPPS, Sadri, Rajasthan

23. Ilse Rollefson (Ms), LPP, Germany

24-28.

Jayan, J. Joseph, Joby, Braharadatham, and Devathathan Farmers of Vechur Breed Conservation Trust , Kerala

29. Kabir Bavikatte, Natural Justice, South Africa

30. Kamal Kishore, Rainfed Livestock Network, Delhi

31. Karthikeya Sivasenapathy, Kuttapalayam

32. Kerekoppa Ramesha , NDRI, Bangalore

33-34.

Krishnakumar, and Mr. Yuva, Water technology Centre ,T.N.A.U.

35. L. P.Swaminathan Trustee, SKCRF

36. Lalji , MARAG / WAMIP, Ahmedabad

37. M Iyue, Professor and Head, Sheep breeding Research station, Sandynallah.- 9943036735

38. M R Pachegaonkar , Retired Deputy Director of Animal Husbandry, Lattur Maharashtra

39. N. Kandasamy, Retired Professor on Animal Genetics & Breeding Coimbatore

40. Nallasenapathy , SEVA,Tamil Nadu

41. P. Kumarasamy, Professor and Head , Livestok Research station, Kattupakkam.

42. P. Murugesha Boopthy ,Vice chancellor ,TNAU Coimbatore

43. P. Thangaraju, VC, TANUVAS ,Chennai

44-46.

P. Vivekanandan , SEVA V.Alagumalai ,SEVA ,Tamil Nadu M. Jayapandi, SEVA,Madurai

47. Pat Lanyasunya, Nairobi, Kenya

48. Pon Deepankar,of Vishwa Mangala go gram yatra, Erode and Mr. Krishanakumar

49. Ramesh Bhatti , Sahjeevan ,Kutch

50. Renukadevi Karthikeya Trustee, SKCRF

51. S K Singh, Principal Scientist (AG&B) Central Institute for Research on Goats, Mathura

52. Sabyasachi Das , Sahjeevan ,Kutch

53. Sanjay, Moving Images, New Delhi

54 Saveio Kratli, International Institute of Environment and Development , UK.

55. Seema Krishna Prasad (Ms), Sahaja Samrudha,Bangalore

56. Senaapathy, Kangayam Cattle Research Foundation and Palluyir Foundation.

57. Sivasenapathy Swaminathan Trustee, SKCRF

58-71.

Vivek Anand, Soundaram Ramaswamy, Mr. Thangaraj, Mr. Vasudevan, Mr. Kumaraswamy, Mr. Madheswaran, Mr. Raju, Mr. Palaniappan, Mr. Venkatachalam, Mr. Mani, Mr. Murugesh, Mr. Guhan, Mr. Aravindh, Mr. Senthil from “Kangayam Breeders society”

72. Yatendra Singh, NBA, Chennai

VALEDICTORY FUNCTION Chief Guest for the valedictory event was Dr. G. Nammalvar, President, Indian Organic Agriculturist Movement and an ardent organic scientist in himself. He spoke on the need to conserve biodiversity in its native set-up where it is most effective and useful. Citing several practical examples, he professed the use of cow dung and urine for agriculture in a natural manner.

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Annexure -1

LIFE Network Meeting on 15 August 2010 at Kuttapalayam, Tamil Nadu

At the outset Sh. P. Vivekanandan welcomed all the members of LIFE Network and other participants who came from different parts of India and abroad. He introduced the participants and their affiliations. As per the Programme, next, Dr D K Sadana read out the minutes of last LIFE Network meeting held at Jaisalmer (Rajasthan) on 27th Feb 2010 narrating its mission and activities being promoted towards empowerment and capacity building of livestock keeping communities and conservation of local livestock breeds. Mr. P. Vivekanandan presented the evolution of LIFE Network and its activities, achievement over the last decade in India especially in the enactment of circulars, policies and Acts in favour of pastoralists; preparation of Biocultural Protocols and awareness on Livestock Keepers Rights being articulated at local and global level. He gave details about the Awards for Pastoralists arranged by LIFE Network at national level from 2009 onwards. He also announced that National Biodiversity Authority has sponsored the Awards for the year 2010 by contributing Rs. 2 lakh. Last date for submission of entries is 30 Sept. 2010. Views of participants were invited to further improve the working of the Network. Dr. Kamal Kishore and Ilse facilitated discussions regarding the membership criteria for the Network, core members, structuring and formalities followed or needed for institutional built-up of the Network. There was a debate on whether LIFE should to be registered as a body and what are all the issues in the long run and what are the options. Some of the members wanted LIFE Network as a registered body whereas others wanted it to remain an informal Network. Fernando expressed happiness that such meetings give a chance to meet dedicated and committed workers and would like that this kind of meetings and interactions should be held at a regular pace. Saverio desired that the Network should be brought up on to the FaceBook as well. Pros and cons of both the options [i.e. (i) Network to be registered (ii) Network continues as now] were considered. After long discussions and getting views from members, it was decided that the LIFE Network will continue as at present but with continued improvements and better structuring. Finally it passed the following resolutions:

1. LIFE Network will continue to be an informal Network but with flexible structure and SEVA will continue to coordinate the activities in India.

2. Structurally, the Network has some core members who conceptualized/ initiated it and few who joined subsequently and made significant contributions or are continually contributing in terms of time, efforts, decisions, activities and events.

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3. In terms of structuring, now it is decided that there will be a Committee of 10 core members to be responsible for major decisions of LIFE Network policies and activities. Following categories and members were nominated:

a. Individual Members: Ilse Koehler-Rollefson, D K Sadana, N Kandasamy, K

P Ramesha, and Kamal Kishore b. Organisation Members: SEVA, LPPS, Sahjeevan, Vechur BCT, SKCRF.

In addition to Core Members, the Network will have several Individual and Organizational Members. Core Membership is also ‘open’ to other members who may be participating more actively in the Network activities and may be invited to become core member. Anybody can become a core member but it should be decided by members present in the LIFE Meeting. A core committee member who is unable to effectively contribute to the upliftment of the Network can request to leave the core membership.

4. Membership is open to anybody who accepts the mission and objectives of LIFE Network. The membership fee was also decided in this Meeting, and is prescribed below :

a. Individuals : Rs 100 b. Breeders group / Association : Rs 500 c. NGOs / Institutions : Rs 1,000

Membership fees can be paid by cash or demand draft or money order in favour of SEVA payable at Madurai, Tamil Nadu and sent to:

Sh. P. Vivekanandan, Coordinator, LIFE Network, SEVA, 45, T.P.M. Nagar, Virattipathu Madurai - 625 010 TN India Phone: 0452 - 2380943 ; 2380082 [O] 0452 - 2383619 (R) e-mail: vivekseva@gmail.com

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