Breakthrough in Sahiwal Cattle Breeding Using Advanced Reproductive Technologies

India has achieved a significant milestone in livestock biotechnology with the successful production of Sahiwal cattle calves using advanced reproductive techniques. Scientists at the Indian Council of Agricultural Research–Indian Veterinary Research Institute (ICAR-IVRI), Izatnagar, Bareilly, utilized Ovum Pick-Up, In Vitro Fertilisation, and Embryo Transfer (OPU–IVF–ET) technology. This development strengthens efforts to conserve and genetically improve indigenous cattle breeds.

Breakthrough in Indigenous Breeding

The application of OPU–IVF–ET technology enables the rapid multiplication of high genetic merit animals. By collecting oocytes from elite Sahiwal cows and fertilizing them in laboratory conditions, scientists can produce multiple embryos in a shorter time span. These embryos are then transferred into surrogate mothers, ensuring efficient propagation of superior traits ICAR.

About Sahiwal Cattle Breed

Sahiwal cattle are regarded as one of India’s best indigenous milch breeds. The breed originates from the Sahiwal region of Punjab in present-day Pakistan. It is also known by names such as Lambi Bar, Lola, Montgomery, Multani and Teli.

Key Characteristics and Productivity

Sahiwal cattle are valued for their high milk yield, averaging around 2,325 kilograms per lactation, with a range between 1,600 and 2,750 kilograms. The breed is highly adaptable, known for heat tolerance, tick resistance, and strong immunity against internal and external parasites. These qualities have led to their export to several Asian, African and Caribbean countries.

Understanding OPU–IVF Technology

Ovum Pick-Up (OPU) is an advanced reproductive biotechnology that allows extraction of oocytes from live animals using ultrasound guidance. These oocytes undergo in vitro maturation, fertilization and culture to form embryos. The embryos are then transferred into synchronized recipient animals to produce offspring of known pedigree Economic Times. This method reduces generation intervals and accelerates genetic improvement, even allowing oocyte collection from pregnant animals under specific conditions.

Recent Advancements at ICAR-IVRI

ICAR-IVRI initiated a focused program in 2022–23 aimed at strengthening the genetic potential of India’s prized dairy breeds Down To Earth. Scientists standardized OPU–IVF–ET protocols under both farm and field conditions, targeting key indigenous breeds such as Sahiwal cattle, Tharparkar cattle, and Murrah buffalo. Between February 28 and March 5, 2026, five healthy Sahiwal calves were born using this technology. The donor cow produced over 12 litres of milk per day, and semen was sourced from a bull with a lactation yield of approximately 3,320 kg.

Future Implications

ICAR-IVRI plans to expand the application of OPU–IVF–ET technology to accelerate the production of elite indigenous cattle and buffalo, strengthening genetic improvement programs and ensuring the conservation of India’s valuable indigenous germplasm Rural Voice.