Revolutionizing Indian Agriculture: Exporting Indigenous Cattle Germplasm

How can India conserve its native cattle breeds effectively? Madan Mohan Yadav, president of IFIZCI, suggests allowing export of frozen semen and embryos to make it financially viable for farmers. Currently, exports of live bovine and germplasm are restricted, requiring a license from the Directorate General of Foreign Trade. Yadav, along with his brother Krishna Mohan, manages Gir Amritphal Gaushala in Haryana. They own 930 cows, including Gir, Nari, Red Sindhi, Hariana, and Punganur breeds. Despite facing losses, Yadav emphasizes the need to export cattle germplasm, especially frozen embryos and semen, to create a new market for farmers. With advanced techniques like IVF, farmers can supply frozen embryos and semen, fetching significant profits. Yadav highlights the huge demand for Indian cattle germplasm in Latin American countries. Collaborating with Brazil’s ABCZ, IFIZCI aims to exchange Indian Zebu genetics and best breeding practices. Establishing genetic laboratories in Gurugram and Gujarat, they plan to provide DNA testing services for farmers. Emulating Brazil’s success in cattle breeding, India has a long way to go in conserving its indigenous cattle breeds.