It is also important to preserve native sheep breeds in the future

(Photo: AM/Tibor Vermes)

Zsolt Feldman explained that the number of herds and farms of indigenous sheep breeds has increased by about 20 percent in recent years thanks to the subsidies. This year, the number of protected indigenous ewes exceeded 13 thousand, and the number of farms exceeded 150.

In situ conservation of the genetic stock of protected indigenous and endangered agricultural animal breeds was eligible for support in the rural development program

So, for example, the Ciga sheep, the Cikta sheep, the Gyimes racka, the Hortobágy (Hungarian) rack, the Hungarian merino, the milking cog, and the Hungarian mountain goat. As a result of the call, sheep farmers received nearly HUF 2 billion in support, and goat farmers received nearly HUF 50 million, he added. Support for the in situ conservation of animal genetic resources continued even after the end of the VP support, the state secretary informed. He also reminded that this spring the call for tenders entitled “Support for the ex situ and in vitro conservation of animal genetic resources and the implementation of professional support activities” was published. Within the framework of the project, support for animal gene conservation is implemented along three target areas. The commitment period of the call lasts from May 1, 2024 to April 30, 2029, it was possible to submit grant applications between June 3, 2024 and July 3, 2024.

AM