Buffalo is India Pride - Dr S. Ayyappan

Dr S. Ayyappan, Secretary, DARE and DG, ICAR inaugurated the ICAR-NAVS Expert consultation on Strategies for Breeding Buffaloes round the year this morning at NASC Complex, Pusa New Delhi. The one day consultation is being attended by experts in the animal science research including Dr K. Pradhan, Dr R.M. Acharya, Dr M.L. Madan, Dr M.K. Bujarbaruah, and former Directors of ICAR Institutes and other senior officials of the Council and Vice Chancellors of animal science universities. Dr Ayyappan described buffalo as “India’s Pride”. He said that we have worlds best breeds like Murrah, Nili-Ravi, Zaffrabadi, Surti, and Banni. Buffaloes’ contribution in milk production in India is more than 54%; though their population is just half in comparison to population of cattle. The buffalo is the backbone for the livelihood of small farmers and even landless labourers in rural India. Buffalo farmers are facing problems due to reproductive issues, shortage of feed and fodder and lack of health and breeding support systems. He asked the experts to deliberate on improvement of fertility and provide clear guidelines for schemes.

Dr K.M.L. Pathak, Deputy Director General (Animal Science) and President, National Academy of Veterinary Science delivered presidential address. Lastly, experts discussed on improvement of fertility buffalo, seasonality in calving pattern, early mortality, late maturity and longer inter calving period. He said that we are looking for a road map from the Animal Science Institutes/Universities to give guidance on the above issues which are affecting productivity of livestock in general and buffaloes in particular. Earlier, Dr B.S. Prakash, ADG (AN) welcomed the delegates.

(Source: DKMA)