Recently, the Prime Minister has introduced a Unified Genomic Chip for cattle, along with indigenous technology for sex-sorted semen production.

About Unified Genomic Chip For Cattle

• It is a technology designed to revolutionise the livestock breeding industry. 
• It’s a microchip that analyses the genetic makeup of animals, providing valuable insights into their traits, health, and potential offspring.
• Developed by: Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD)  under Ministry of Animal Husbandry, Dairying and Fisheries.
• Two Versions: The chip comes in two versions

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• • Gau Chip: Designed for Cattle
  • Mahish Chip: Designed for Buffalo
• Purpose: Assists farmers in early identification of young, high-quality bulls, enabling informed decisions regarding animal selection.
• Benefit: Enhances the quality and efficiency of cattle in the dairy sector.

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About Sex Sorted Technology

• Sex sorting technology for cattle is a method used to separate sperm cells based on their sex chromosomes, allowing farmers to choose the sex of their offspring.
• Indigenous Technology: Recently launched for the production of sex-sorted semen.
• Purpose: Increases the availability of sex-sorted semen for farmers, enabling the production of predominantly female calves.
• Technology Use: IVF Technology (Test Tube Baby) is also utilised to expedite the production of desired cattle breeds.
• DAHD Aim: To produce 1 million doses of sexed semen annually for the Artificial Insemination (AI) program.
• Significance:
  • Lowers the cost from Rs 1,000 (for imported technology) to Rs 200 per dose.
  • Facilitates quicker production of high-grade female cattle with a 90% success rate.
  • When combined with the Unified Genomic Chip, the sex-sorted semen technology helps reduce the number of non-productive animals, making dairy farming more economically sustainable.