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Key Points

The Rajasthan government has imported 2,680 doses of Brazilian Gir Bull semen as part of the National Gokul Mission initiative. This move aims to improve the genetic potential of local cattle and significantly boost milk production. With this intervention, the state expects an increase in milk yields from the current 10-20 litres per day to 40-50 litres. By expanding artificial insemination efforts, the government is also addressing the need for more female calves to support sustainable livestock farming.

Key Points: Rajasthan Gir Bull Semen Import Boosts Dairy Production

  • Rajasthan imports Gir Bull semen from Brazil
  • Initiative under National Gokul Mission
  • Expected milk yield increase to 40-50 litres per day
  • Expanding artificial insemination program in 2025
2 min read

Rajasthan imports Brazilian Gir Bull semen to boost milk production

Rajasthan imports 2,680 Brazilian Gir Bull semen doses to enhance milk yield under National Gokul Mission.

"This programme marks a major milestone in improving the rural economy. - Joraram Kumawat"

Jaipur, May 15

In a significant move to strengthen the dairy sector and boost milk production, the Rajasthan government has imported 2,680 doses of purebred Gir Bull semen from Brazil for artificial insemination of indigenous cows across 23 districts in the state.

The initiative is part of the National Gokul Mission's Breed Improvement Programme and aims to enhance the genetic potential and productivity of local cattle.

Officials say Brazilian Gir bulls -- specifically of the Espetaculo FIV and IVA FIV D Brass breeds -- are known for their high milk-yielding capacity, with offspring capable of producing 5 to 8 times more milk than native cows.

Rajasthan Minister Joraram Kumawat said the average milk production of indigenous cows in the state currently ranges from 10 to 20 litres per day. "With this intervention, yields could rise to 40-50 litres per day," he added.

The project, which began in April, has already distributed doses district-wise as follows: Ajmer (830 doses), Jaipur (600 doses), Kota (400 doses), Udaipur (500 doses), Pali (150 doses), and Bharatpur (200 doses).

A further request for 10,000 more doses has been submitted to the central government to meet rising demand.

Shortlisting of cows for artificial insemination is underway in districts including Ajmer, Bhilwara, Tonk, Udaipur, Chittorgarh, Dungarpur, Banswara, Pratapgarh, Jaipur, Sikar, Alwar, Dausa, Jhunjhunu, Kota, Bundi, Jhalawar, Baran, Pali, Bharatpur, Karauli, Sawai Madhopur, and Dholpur.

According to the 2019 livestock census, Rajasthan has over 10.43 lakh Gir breed cows. "This programme marks a major milestone in improving the rural economy through enhanced dairy output," Kumawat noted.

In a parallel effort, the state government has also launched an initiative to increase the number of female calves through artificial insemination using sex-sorted semen.

Sourced from a Chennai-based laboratory, the sex-sorted semen is expected to produce around 80-90 per cent female calves. Of the one lakh doses ordered, 60,000 have already been received, and distribution started on Thursday; the remaining 40,000 doses are expected by June.

The government also plans to expand the programme in 2025-26 with a target of conducting artificial insemination in 10 lakh animals.

Plans are also underway to set up a dedicated laboratory for sex-sorted semen in Rajasthan to ensure a timely and efficient supply within the state.

"This initiative will not only improve milk production but also address the issue of rising numbers of male calves, which has long been a concern for livestock farmers," said Kumawat.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priyanka M.
This is fantastic news for Rajasthan's dairy farmers! 🐄 My uncle in Ajmer has Gir cows and struggles with low yields. If this can truly multiply milk production 5x, it'll transform rural livelihoods. Hope the government ensures proper training for artificial insemination technicians too.
R
Rajesh K.
Why import from Brazil when we have excellent Gir bulls in Gujarat? Shouldn't we prioritize our own desi breeds first? This seems like unnecessary foreign spending when local solutions exist.
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Sunita P.
The sex-sorted semen initiative is brilliant! Female calves mean more milk-producing cows in future. As a veterinary student, I'm excited to see such scientific approaches being adopted in our dairy sector. Hope they expand this nationwide soon.
A
Amit S.
Good initiative but implementation is key. Last year's cattle vaccination drive in my district was poorly managed. Hope they've learned from past mistakes. Also, what about feed quality? High-yield cows need better nutrition too.
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Meena R.
As someone from a dairy farming family in Pali, this gives me hope! But will small farmers afford the maintenance of these high-yield cows? Government should also subsidize cattle feed and healthcare to make this sustainable. #WhiteRevolution2.0
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Vikram J.
Interesting move, but let's not forget our indigenous breeds' disease resistance and adaptability to local conditions. While increasing yield is important, we must maintain genetic diversity. Maybe a balanced approach would be better - improve local breeds too.

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