Sri Vijaya Puram, Mar 23: In a landmark capacity-building initiative, officers from the Department of Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services (AH&VS), Andaman & Nicobar Administration, successfully completed a six-day specialised training programme on “Basic Aspects of Bovine Embryo Transfer” at the Central Cattle Breeding Farm (CCBF), Dhamrod, Gujarat, from 16th to 21st March 2026.
The intensive training, organised in collaboration with National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), covered the entire spectrum of embryo transfer technology. The curriculum included functional anatomy and physiology of female bovine reproductive organs, reproductive cycle, semen processing, estrus synchronization, selection and management of recipient animals, hormonal control, field handling of frozen semen, preparatory procedures, and the complete technique of artificial insemination and embryo transfer. Participants also received hands-on practical training in epidural anaesthesia, palpation of reproductive organs, ET gun handling, ultrasound-guided evaluation, thawing of frozen embryos, and actual transfer of fresh embryos into synchronized recipient cows.
A highlight of the programme was a full-day visit to the NDDB’s state-of-the-art IVF-ET Laboratory at Anand, where trainees observed advanced embryo production, preservation, freezing techniques, and handling of day-6 fresh embryos for long-distance transport. The training concluded with a valedictory ceremony addressed by senior NDDB officials, including Dr. C.P. Devanand, Managing Director, NDS, who distributed completion certificates.
The officers returned highly confident and equipped to implement this advanced reproductive technology in the islands. They have already carried back essential medicines (Prostaglandin injections) required for the next round of estrus synchronization of selected recipient cows scheduled on 27th March 2026. Pregnancy diagnosis results of the transferred embryos will be monitored in the coming months.
This successful training marks a major step forward in the Department’s efforts to introduce cutting-edge embryo transfer technology in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, which will accelerate genetic upgradation of local cattle, increase milk production, improve farmer incomes, and strengthen dairy development in the Union Territory
