India’s First Gene-Edited Sheep Born at SKUAST-Kashmir: A Milestone in Animal Biotechnology
Srinagar, May 28, 2025 — In a groundbreaking achievement for Indian science, the Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST), Kashmir, has successfully produced the country’s first gene-edited sheep, marking a significant leap forward in animal biotechnology and genetic research.
University officials have hailed the event as a “historic milestone” for both SKUAST and the nation, emphasizing its potential to revolutionize livestock development.
“This is a major breakthrough at the national level. It is the first of its kind in India, and everyone at the university is thrilled,” said Dr. Riyaz Ahmad Shah, Professor of Animal Biotechnology and head of the research team.
The female gene-edited lamb, born four months ago, was created through a precise genetic modification of the myostatin gene, which controls muscle growth. The editing was carried out at the embryonic stage using the cutting-edge CRISPR-Cas9 technology.
“The edited sheep contains no foreign DNA,” Dr. Shah noted, distinguishing it from traditional transgenic organisms and potentially streamlining its path through India’s evolving biotechnology regulations.
He added that strict international biosafety protocols were followed throughout the process, ensuring safety and compliance with global research standards.
From Noori to a New Era
This isn’t the first time Dr. Shah and his team have made national headlines. In 2012, they created Noori, the first cloned Pashmina goat in India, a landmark in itself. Noori lived for 11 years, passing away in 2023.
With the successful birth of the gene-edited lamb, SKUAST-Kashmir has once again positioned itself at the forefront of reproductive and genetic biotechnology in the country.
Vision for the Future
Vice Chancellor Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai recently briefed Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha about the development, describing it as “the birth of a new era in livestock genetics in India.” The Lieutenant Governor reportedly praised the team for their scientific excellence and contribution to national research.
Dr. Shah said the team is closely monitoring the lamb’s growth and health. “Muscle growth is expected to be enhanced due to the gene editing, but several years of observation will be needed to evaluate the full impact,” he said.
SKUAST also plans to expand its gene-editing program to include traits like twin births and disease resistance, promising a new chapter in sustainable and productive livestock farming.
The university is currently in the process of naming the lamb. “We’ll announce it soon,” Dr. Shah added with a smile.