Why in the News
The Indian Veterinary Research Institute successfully produced Sahiwal breed calves using advanced Assisted Reproductive Technologies, marking a major breakthrough in genetic improvement of indigenous cattle.
Key Highlights
- Institute: ICAR–Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI), Izatnagar, Bareilly
- Breed: Sahiwal indigenous cattle
- Technology used:
- Ovum Pick Up (OPU)
- In-Vitro Fertilisation (IVF)
- Embryo Transfer (ET)
- Five healthy Sahiwal calves born within five days starting 28 February 2026
What is OPU-IVF-ET Technology
- Ovum Pick-Up (OPU): Ultrasound-guided collection of eggs from elite female animals
- In-Vitro Fertilisation (IVF): Fertilisation in laboratory using selected superior semen
- Embryo Transfer (ET): Developed embryos transferred to surrogate mothers
- Enables rapid multiplication of superior genetics
Why the Sahiwal Breed is Important
- Indigenous dairy breed
- Heat tolerant
- Disease resistant
- Suitable for tropical climates
- High milk productivity among native breeds
| [2017] What is the application of Somatic Cell Nuclear Transfer Technology? (a) Production of biolarvicides (b) Manufacture of biodegradable plastics (c) Reproductive cloning of animals (d) Production of organisms free of diseases |
