Why in news?
A herd of rare Kharai camels in Gujarat got caught by rising tides, drawing attention to this unique breed and the challenges it faces.
About the Kharai camel
- Kharai camels are India’s ninth recognised camel breed, native to Gujarat’s Kutch region. The name “Kharai” derives from the local word for salt.
- They are one‑humped (dromedary) animals with strong swimming ability, allowing them to wade through tidal creeks and graze on mangrove leaves.
Habitat and lifestyle
- Marshy ecosystems: The camels live on islands and coastal areas where they feed on saline vegetation such as mangroves, saline grasses and salt‑bush.
- Seasonal migration: Herders move their camels between the mainland and islands depending on tides and vegetation availability.
- Cultural significance: Pastoralist communities, including the Rabari and Fakirani Jat, rely on Kharai camels for milk, manure and traditional livelihoods.
Importance and threats
- Ecological role: Kharai camels help regenerate mangrove ecosystems by dispersing seeds and pruning foliage.
- Climate resilience: Their ability to thrive in saline, arid environments makes them valuable for climate‑smart livestock systems.
- Threats: Industrial development, habitat loss and limited veterinary services threaten their survival. Rising sea levels and frequent cyclones pose additional risks.
