The Animal Resources Development Department of Tripura has been recognized for its innovative approach to boosting milk production in the state. The department has been awarded the prestigious ‘Centre for Innovation in Public Service’ Award for its introduction of Artificial Insemination (AI) using Sexed Semen Technology.
Neeraj Kumar Chanchal, the Director of the department, proudly shared, “We are honored to receive the ‘Centre for Innovation in Public Service’ Award for our pioneering work in AI through Sexed Semen Technology. The award was presented to me by Manoj Sinha, the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu & Kashmir.”
Tripura’s cattle population primarily consists of local breeds that traditionally produce low milk yields. With only a small percentage of crossbred or exotic cattle, the state has struggled to meet the national average in per capita milk availability. In an effort to improve the genetic quality of indigenous cows and increase milk production, various cattle breed upgradation programs have been implemented.
However, it was the introduction of AI with Sex Sorted Semen in October 2020 that marked a significant milestone for the state. Tripura became the first state in the North East to adopt this technology, which selectively increases the likelihood of female calf births – essential for milk production.
Director Chanchal explained, “The implementation of sexed semen AI in specific areas of the state aims to produce more upgraded female cattle, ultimately boosting milk production and fostering sustainable socio-economic growth in the dairy sector.”
Since its inception, the AI program with sexed semen has yielded impressive results. Over the past four years, Tripura has witnessed the birth of 46,746 improved female calves out of 2,58,000 AI procedures conducted with sexed semen.
What began as a pilot project in four districts has now expanded statewide, with AI services being delivered directly to farmers. Chanchal noted, “We are currently conducting AI with sexed semen on a large scale. The success of this initiative has significantly increased acceptance and implementation at the grassroots level.”
Looking ahead, the department projects a substantial increase in milk production over the next few years. By 2026-27, it is expected that milk output will rise from 2.47 lakh tonnes to around 2.96 lakh tonnes, while Per Capita Availability (PCA) of milk is estimated to increase from 163.38 gm/head/day to approximately 199.70 gm/head/day.
The adoption of AI with Sex Sorted Semen in Tripura signifies a transformative shift in the dairy sector, promising a brighter future for both farmers and consumers.
