Artificial insemination technology, currently used for cattle, will now be used for genetic improvement of sheep and goat breeds in India. This will involve selective breeding through propagation of superior male germplasm and establishment of semen storing facilities at the state level. The National Livestock Mission aims to increase animal productivity by targeting meat production, milk, eggs, and wool, as well as developing entrepreneurs in the livestock sector.
The new operational guidelines of the National Livestock Mission include providing assistance for establishing frozen semen production laboratories for goats and liquid semen production laboratories for sheep at regional levels. Additionally, genetic improvement of indigenous breeds of horse, donkey, and camel through selective breeding will be done under the NLM 2.0. The Centre will also provide assistance for establishing semen production laboratories for horse, donkey, and camel at regional levels to preserve their breed and germplasm.
The guidelines emphasize the need to prevent the destruction of resilient breeds due to indiscriminate breeding practices. The animal husbandry ministry is conducting nationwide awareness campaigns and educational activities during the ‘animal husbandry and animal welfare month’ to inform livestock farmers about the new guidelines and other relevant programs and schemes to support them.
