Sri Vijaya Puram, May 29: In a landmark development for livestock breeding and dairy farming in the Islands, the Department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services (AH&VS), Andaman & Nicobar Administration, in collaboration with the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), Anand, Gujarat, has achieved a significant milestone with the successful implementation of the Embryo Transfer Technology (ETT)programme.
Under this advanced reproductive technology initiative, four phases of embryo transfers were successfully conducted during the year 2026. The details of the phases are as under:
• Phase I : 10–11 February 2026 – 20 embryo transfers
• Phase II : 13–14 March 2026 – 20 embryo transfers
• Phase III : 16–17 April 2026 – 19 embryo transfers
• Phase IV : 19–20 May 2026 – 19 embryo transfers
A total of 78 embryo transfers has been carried out in carefully selected high-quality recipient cattle across different parts of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. As per the latest pregnancy diagnosis reports, 20 recipient animals have already been confirmed pregnant. Further pregnancy confirmations are expected in the coming weeks as follow-up examinations for the remaining animals are underway.
The primary objective of the Embryo Transfer Technology programme is to accelerate genetic improvement in the cattle population by producing high-quality progeny from superior donor animals. The technology enables the rapid multiplication of elite genetics, which is expected to bring a substantial improvement in milk production. The female calves born through this programme are projected to achieve an average milk yield of 15 litres per day in their first lactation, significantly higher than the current average productivity levels in the Islands.
This initiative is expected to play a transformative role in enhancing overall milk production, improving the genetic potential of livestock, increasing farmer income and strengthening the dairy sector in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. The successful outcome of the programme also demonstrates the effectiveness of advanced reproductive technologies even in challenging island conditions.
Senior officers of the Department of AH&VS have expressed deep satisfaction over the encouraging results achieved so far. They highly appreciated the dedication and technical expertise shown by the field veterinarians, para-veterinary staff and all supporting personnel involved in the execution of the programme. The Department also extended sincere gratitude to the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), Anand, for providing continuous technical guidance, training and valuable support throughout the implementation of this programme.
The Department of Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services remains fully committed to introducing and expanding various advanced reproductive technologies such as Embryo Transfer Technology, Sex Sorted Semen, and other scientific interventions. These efforts are aimed at benefitting livestock farmers and promoting sustainable and profitable dairy development across the Union Territory.
