Livestock Census is a regular quinquennial exercise of Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying (DAHD). The first Livestock Census was conducted in the year 1919 and last census i.e. 20th Livestock Census was conducted in 2019. The 21st Livestock Census exercise has been launched across the country on 25th October, 2024 and is likely to be completed by 31st March, 2025. It includes enumeration of 15 species of domesticated animals namely, cattle, buffalo, goat, sheep, yak, mithun, dog, rabbit, pig, horse, pony, donkey, mules, camel, elephant and poultry birds. Assessing trends in livestock and breeds for better policymaking, collating data on indigenous and exotic breeds for their conservation and breeding programs, providing valuable inputs for various government planning and initiatives for development and welfare in the livestock sector are some aims and objectives of this exercise. 21st Livestock Census is the largest enumeration in terms of total livestock population and number of breeds in the country. In this Census, a total of 220 breeds registered by the Bureau along with other exotic breeds and their crosses are being included for head-wise enumeration, under various categories. This 'Ready Reckoner on Animal Breeds in 21st Livestock Census (20240' has been designed with this specific aim, so that the enumerators and officers may easily recognize and ascertain the breed based on the distinguishable characteristics.