How Are Punjab and Kerala Enhancing Livestock Productivity?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Collaboration between Punjab and Kerala enhances livestock productivity.
- Exchange of genetic materials includes Sahiwal bulls and Holstein Friesian semen.
- Advanced reproductive technologies like IVF are part of the initiative.
- Focus on capacity building through exchange programs for veterinarians.
- This partnership aims to boost farmer prosperity and sustainability.
Chandigarh, Sep 25 (NationPress) In an effort to improve livestock productivity and enhance the prosperity of farmers, the governments of Punjab and Kerala have teamed up to elevate livestock productivity by utilizing each state's distinct capabilities in animal husbandry. This partnership focuses on the exchange of high-quality genetic resources, with Kerala set to acquire Sahiwal breed bulls from Punjab.
In exchange, Punjab is set to receive Holstein Friesian (HF) and Murrah bull semen from Kerala, having placed an initial order for 30,000 doses of HF semen and 60,520 doses of Murrah buffalo semen through the Kerala Livestock Development Board.
The collaborative decisions for livestock enhancement were made during a significant meeting between Punjab's Animal Husbandry Minister Gurmeet Khudian and Kerala's Minister for Animal Husbandry J. Chinchu Rani.
Khudian mentioned that both states have committed to working together on advanced reproductive technologies to foster livestock development. This cooperation encompasses joint initiatives in pioneering scientific programs such as embryo transfer (ET) and in-vitro fertilization (IVF) aimed at accelerating breed enhancement.
Moreover, the two states plan to collaborate on genomic selection and breeding value estimation in laboratories to cultivate superior livestock genetics. This alliance strives to harness science and technology to elevate the quality and productivity of livestock in both regions, he added.
To facilitate knowledge sharing and capacity building, the partnership will emphasize human resource development via exchange programs for veterinarians, scientists, and trainees. This initiative will enable skill development and expertise sharing between the Punjab and Kerala Livestock Development Boards.
Minister Rani expressed eagerness to learn from Punjab’s experiences while also sharing their own advancements. This collaborative approach is set to foster a more resilient and profitable dairy sector in both states, ensuring sustainable income growth for agricultural communities.
Highlighting the significance of technology transfer, Principal Secretary of Punjab's Animal Husbandry Department Rahul Bhandari stated that the exchange of scientists and new technologies is vital.
“This partnership will guarantee rapid sharing of innovative practices, resulting in tangible benefits for our farmers. This groundbreaking initiative establishes a new standard for interstate cooperation in agriculture's allied sectors and is anticipated to greatly enhance the genetic potential of livestock, boost milk production, and empower farmers throughout Punjab and Kerala,” he added.