Sahiwal Cattle IVF Breakthrough Boosts Indigenous Breeding

India has achieved a significant milestone in livestock biotechnology with the successful production of Sahiwal cattle calves using advanced reproductive techniques. Scientists at the Indian Council of Agricultural Research–Indian Veterinary Research Institute (ICAR-IVRI), Izatnagar, Bareilly utilised Ovum Pick-Up, In Vitro Fertilisation, and Embryo Transfer (OPU–IVF–ET) technology. This development strengthens efforts to conserve and genetically improve indigenous cattle breeds.

Breakthrough in Indigenous Breeding

The application of OPU–IVF–ET technology enables the rapid multiplication of high genetic merit animals. By collecting oocytes from elite Sahiwal cows and fertilising them in laboratory conditions, scientists can produce multiple embryos in a shorter time span. These embryos are then transferred into surrogate mothers, ensuring efficient propagation of superior traits.

About Sahiwal Cattle Breed

Sahiwal cattle are regarded as one of India’s best indigenous milch breeds. The breed originates from the Sahiwal region of Punjab in present-day Pakistan. It is also known by names such as Lambi Bar, Lola, Montgomery, Multani and Teli. The cows are typically brownish-red, ranging from mahogany to greyish shades, with occasional white patches. Bulls generally exhibit darker extremities.

Key Characteristics and Productivity

Sahiwal cattle are valued for their high milk yield, averaging around 2,325 kilograms per lactation, with a range between 1,600 and 2,750 kilograms. The breed is highly adaptable, known for heat tolerance, tick resistance, and strong immunity against internal and external parasites. These qualities have led to their export to several Asian, African and Caribbean countries.

Important Facts for Exams

• Sahiwal is one of the best indigenous milch cattle breeds of India.
• Originates from the Sahiwal region in Punjab, Pakistan.
• Known for heat tolerance, disease resistance, and high milk yield.
• Also called Lambi Bar, Montgomery, Multani and Teli.

Understanding OPU–IVF Technology

Ovum Pick-Up (OPU) is an advanced reproductive biotechnology that allows extraction of oocytes from live animals using ultrasound guidance. These oocytes undergo in vitro maturation, fertilisation and culture to form embryos. The embryos are then transferred into synchronised recipient animals to produce offspring of known pedigree. This method reduces generation intervals and accelerates genetic improvement, even allowing oocyte collection from pregnant animals under specific conditions.