author(s)
S Agarwal, S Prasad, R Kumar and S Chandra

abstract
Molecular characterization of native chicken is the most important tools for the conservation and proper utilization of genetic resources. Indigenous chicken became hardy and resistance to various diseases due to natural selection under free range system. Their survivability is more than the crossbred under village condition. Native chicken plays very important role in rural areas but there is lacking of information on their genetic makeup, performance, adaptability and resistance to diseases. Marker identification will help to enhance selection of quality genotypes for breeding to improve important traits as tolerance to diseases and resistance to environmental stresses. The performance of birds can be improved by selection, upgrading or crossbreeding programme by utilizing desired traits with the help of molecular markers. Some of the limitations of this application are lack of funding, poor infrastructure, scarcity of technical manpower and poor laboratory services.