National Workshop Unites Leaders on Livestock Goals
The “Workshop on Breed Development in India” took place in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh on July 12, 2025. It brought together top policymakers, researchers, livestock farmers, and officials from across the country.
Union Minister Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh chaired the event. Chief Minister Shri Yogi Adityanath attended as Chief Guest, emphasizing Uttar Pradesh’s growing role in animal husbandry.
Key Themes: Indigenous Breed Development and Genetic Improvement
The workshop focused on two key goals:
- Enhancing indigenous breed development
- Accelerating genetic improvement in livestock
Over 700 livestock farmers and veterinarians attended the event. Experts discussed how to modernize livestock breeding with technology while preserving native breeds.
Climate, Hygiene and Care: Cornerstones of Productivity
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath underlined that good climate, hygiene, and animal care are essential for livestock productivity.
He encouraged farmers to adopt scientific tools like Artificial Insemination (AI) and support from state-run initiatives such as the Go-Seva Aayog.
Technological Push: IVF, SSS and AI Take Center Stage
Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh emphasized that India is embracing technologies like:
- In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF)
- Sex-Sorted Semen (SSS)
- Artificial Insemination (AI)
These innovations are already improving breeding outcomes and milk productivity across states.
The Minister also praised the work of MAITRIs—trained personnel delivering AI services directly to farmers.
Inaugurations That Matter: Institutes and Industry Support
Several key projects were inaugurated during the workshop:
- Artificial Insemination Training Institute in Gorakhpur
- Three major milk processing units under AHIDF in Amethi, Bareilly, and Mathura
These efforts aim to boost infrastructure, farmer training, and processing capabilities in the livestock value chain.
Empowering Breeders: National Framework Launched
The workshop saw the launch of a Framework for the Establishment of Breeders Associations.
This framework will build organized breeder networks, crucial for breed conservation and knowledge-sharing at the grassroots level.
Uttar Pradesh: A Model for Farmer-Centric Policies
UP Animal Husbandry Minister Shri Dharmpal Singh shared insights on the state’s initiatives:
- Adoption of IVF and AI technologies
- Support for women-led dairy cooperatives
- State-wide breed improvement programs
These initiatives reflect the state’s commitment to boosting farmer incomes and achieving Atma-Nirbharta in the livestock sector.
Focus on Disease Control and Natural Farming
Shri Yogi Adityanath reaffirmed UP’s goal to become Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) free.
He also promoted natural farming practices to balance productivity with environmental health.
Women-led Success Stories and Regional Innovation
Highlighting success stories, the CM mentioned women-led milk unions in Jhansi, where scientific methods are transforming lives and rural economies.
Such grassroots leadership sets a powerful example for other states.
Expert Panels Drive Innovation Discourse
Two expert panels were held, moderated by Ms. Varsha Joshi and Dr. Abhijit Mitra.
The discussions focused on:
- Genetic progress in indigenous breeds
- Advanced reproductive technologies
- Breed selection and performance tracking
Scientists and field workers shared successful use-cases and solutions.
Vision for Sustainable Livestock Development
Smt. Alka Upadhyaya, Secretary, Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, emphasized livestock as a key to achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
She called for data-backed planning, regional interventions, and modern breeding techniques to drive national growth.
Interactive Farmer Feedback Sessions
Both the Chief Minister and Union Minister interacted with progressive farmers.
Farmers shared insights from the field, including their experiences with AI technology, veterinary services, and breed management techniques.
A Defining Moment for Indian Livestock
This workshop marks a turning point in aligning India’s breed improvement goals with global standards.
It blends tradition with innovation—empowering farmers, increasing productivity, and ensuring a sustainable future for India’s livestock sector.
