Bareilly, September 14 (Daily Kiran) : In Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, a significant advancement in livestock breeding has been initiated with the launch of the world’s first embryo transfer and genomics-based program aimed at improving the native Gir cattle breed. This initiative seeks to increase the population of high-quality indigenous cows. The program has attracted participation from scientists and experts from Brazil and Tanzania, and is organized by BL Agro and Leeds Genetics.
Among the attendees were Madhya Pradesh‘s Deputy Chief Minister Rajendra Shukla, Uttar Pradesh’s Cabinet Minister Dharmapal Singh, and Forest Minister Arun Saxena. Shukla praised the initiative, stating it would lead to increased milk production, thereby reducing the reliance on artificial methods for making dairy products due to milk shortages. He emphasized that such programs are vital for achieving Prime Minister Modi’s vision of a developed and healthy India by 2047.
When asked about promoting this technology, Shukla affirmed that the embryo and chip workshop would indeed foster growth in the sector. He added that Madhya Pradesh is adopting best practices from other states and highlighted the establishment of a bovine sanctuary in Rewa, which would house 10,000 cows and plans to expand to 20,000, focusing on conservation and breed improvement.
Cabinet Minister Dharmapal Singh noted the uniqueness of this program, stating it is the first of its kind in Bareilly, with significant research contributions from Brazilian and Tanzanian experts. He remarked that improving the Gir breed through embryo transfer would enhance the quality of milk, which he referred to as “nectar.” Singh expressed hope that farmers would benefit from improved income as a result of better milk production.
Forest Minister Arun Saxena emphasized the importance of this initiative for both farmers and the general public. He projected that improved breeds could increase milk production from 2-4 liters to 12-14 liters daily, thereby boosting farmers’ income. He assured that the government would plan to make this modern technology accessible to small and marginal farmers.
Ashish Khandelwal, director of Leeds Genetics, shared that the project’s inspiration came from his mother’s wish after the COVID-19 pandemic. He mentioned that the government had been trying to bring embryos from Brazil for over a decade, and their efforts have finally borne fruit. The project has already incurred costs of around 200 crore rupees, with plans to invest an additional 1,500 crore rupees over the next five years. Khandelwal explained that increasing the milk yield of cows from 4-5 liters to 40 liters could significantly enhance farmers’ daily earnings.
Dr. Ghanshyam Khandelwal, chairman of BL Agro, highlighted the importance of empowering farmers for the nation’s growth. He noted that the decline in cow care over time has led to deteriorating breeds and emphasized that improving milk production could transform farmers’ livelihoods.
The initiative marks a crucial step towards enhancing the dairy industry in India, focusing on sustainable practices and the welfare of farmers.
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