Success of sex-sorted semen in East Singhbhum: 85% calf birth rate

Mail News Service

Jamshedpur, July 25: The use of sex-sorted semen in East Singhbhum district has yielded promising results. Over 100 cows have given birth, with more than 85% of the offspring being calves. This initiative is part of the Animal Husbandry Department’s breed improvement program aimed at increasing the number of cows.

High success rate boosts enthusiasm

Dr. Surendra Kumar, the District Animal Husbandry Officer, reported that the sex-sorted semen technique has shown an 85% success rate. Artificial insemination (AI) was performed on approximately 900 animals, resulting in around 800 births, with a high percentage of calves.

Ensuring calf births

The sex-sorted semen technique involves separating male chromosomes from cattle semen, ensuring that the resulting offspring will be a calf. This method helps prevent the birth of male calves and promotes the birth of high-quality heifers, which are beneficial for milk production. The number of calves and overall milk production are expected to increase as a result.

Cost and guarantee for farmers

Under this scheme, livestock farmers pay Rs 500 for the artificial insemination of their cows. This fee guarantees pregnancy, and the assurance that the offspring will be a calf. If the cow does not become pregnant after two insemination attempts, the Rs 500 fee is refunded to the farmers. Additionally, if a calf is born, Rs 250 is refunded.

This program is currently being implemented in a few districts, including East Singhbhum, and is part of a broader effort to enhance livestock quality and productivity.