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Govt expands livestock genetic improvement & productivity initiatives
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Thursday, 19 February, 2026, 08 : 00 AM [IST]
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Our Bureau, New Delhi
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The Government of India has announced major enhancements to its livestock genetic improvement programmes aimed at boosting productivity, resilience and farmer incomes in the animal husbandry sector.
Under renewed focus, the Department of Animal Husbandry, Dairy and Fisheries is scaling up key initiatives to improve the genetic quality of cattle, buffalo, sheep and goat populations across the country. These efforts include expanded artificial insemination coverage, the establishment of semen production facilities and advanced breeding technologies such as in-vitro fertilisation and progeny testing systems. These measures are designed to accelerate genetic upgradation while preserving important indigenous traits.
A key priority has been the scientific selection of animals with high genetic merit through genomic selection tools — including breed-specific genomic chips — enabling farmers to access superior genetics that can drive higher milk yields and improved disease resistance. The government is also supporting the training of multipurpose artificial insemination technicians to deliver these services directly to rural areas, ensuring broader reach and adoption.
The expansion of IVF laboratories is expected to propagate elite livestock in fewer breeding cycles, helping farmers increase herd quality and productivity. Progeny testing and pedigree selection programmes continue to produce high genetic merit bulls that form the backbone of quality breeding stock available at semen stations nationwide.
Officials highlight that these genetic improvement programmes are an integral part of broader efforts such as the Rashtriya Gokul Mission and the National Livestock Mission, which target sustainable growth, enhanced livelihoods and reduction of production inefficiencies across the livestock value chain.
With these initiatives advancing, India aims to strengthen its position as a global leader in livestock productivity while supporting rural economies and dairy farmers’ incomes in the years ahead.
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