Vol. 9, Issue 5, Part L (2024)

The Bundelkhand region of Uttar Pradesh faces significant challenges in dairy farming, including unproductive breeds, reproductive disorders, and a high population of surplus male calves. These issues lead to economic losses and threaten the livelihoods of local communities dependent on livestock for income. The introduction of sex-sorted semen technology aims to address these challenges by improving the genetic quality of dairy herds and increasing the birth rate of female calves, which are more valuable for milk production.

The primary objective of this study is to enhance the productivity of dairy herds in the Bundelkhand area by implementing sex-sorted semen technology. This initiative aims to increase the conception rate of female calves, thereby improving the overall income and sustainability of dairy farming for marginalized communities.

The project involved the use of sex-sorted semen for artificial insemination, with a focus on robust data collection and monitoring systems to track the success of inseminations. Over the course of the project, more than 7.50 lakh artificial inseminations were performed, resulting in a significant number of successful conceptions and births. The project also included training for local farmers and AI technicians to ensure effective implementation of the technology.

The results of the project have been promising, with a reported conception rate of over 93% for female calves using the sorted semen technique. This has led to a substantial increase in the population of female cattle, which is expected to enhance milk production and improve the livelihoods of approximately 4.20 lakh families involved in the project. Additionally, the project has contributed to better breeding practices and increased access to scientific services for farmers in the region. Overall, the integration of sex-sorted semen technology has shown potential for transforming dairy farming practices in Bundelkhand, promoting both economic and ecological sustainability.