Kharai Camels

Kharai Camels: Recently, despite repeated directives from the National Green Tribunal (NGT), illegal salt pans and encroachments into tidal creeks continue to degrade the fragile mangrove ecosystems in Gujarat’s Kachchh district.

o This region is the last remaining natural habitat of the Kharai camel.

• About Kharai Camel : It is one of the few camel species capable of swimming long distances—over 3 km at a time in deep seawater—to reach mangrove grazing areas.

o Origin & Name: Indigenous to Gujarat, the Kharai camel derives its name from the local word “Khara”, meaning saline, highlighting its unique adaptation to both desert and coastal ecosystems.

o Ecological Role: These camels are primarily found in Kachchh, where they help sustain mangrove ecosystems by grazing without harming the delicate vegetation.

o Cultural Heritage: The Rabari and Fakirani Jat communities have preserved and bred the Kharai camel for over 400 years, making it a vital part of their pastoral traditions.

o Nutritional & Medicinal Value: Kharai camel milk is nutrient-rich and known for its therapeutic benefits. It contains antibodies similar to those in human milk, which aid digestion and enhance immunity.

o Conservation Status: Listed as Endangered by IUCN.

• According to Forest Survey of India (2023) data, Kachchh recorded the highest mangrove loss in India, losing over 61 sq km of cover since 2021.