The Department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services (AH&VS), Andaman & Nicobar Administration, has launched the Embryo Transfer Technology (ETT) Project, marking the first implementation of this advanced reproductive technology in livestock in the islands. Funded under the central Rashtriya Gokul Mission, the initiative aims to enhance the genetic quality of local cattle, increase milk production, improve the female calf ratio, and accelerate self-reliance in dairy farming.
NDDB Dairy Services, a pioneer in ETT in India, is executing the project. The first embryo transfers were conducted on February 10 at the Government Cattle Farm, Dollygunj, officially beginning ETT operations in the Union Territory. A dedicated project team has been set up to monitor and implement the initiative, with senior veterinary officers to be included as the programme expands.
Secretary of AH&VS, Pallavi Sarkar, IAS, witnessed the embryo transfer process, including recipient preparation and implantation, and expressed confidence that this intervention will mark a new chapter in the islands’ dairy sector. ETT allows for the birth of female calves with high milk yield potential, independent of the recipient animal’s genetics.
The project’s first phase will focus on selected clusters in South Andaman. Recipient animals will be chosen based on reproductive performance and other established criteria. Owners of selected cattle will sign a memorandum of understanding with the department, and all necessary documentation, health evaluations, and risk mitigation measures will be undertaken to ensure optimal outcomes for embryo transfer calves.
ETT provides transformative benefits: it enables rapid multiplication of genetically superior female calves, reduces unwanted male calf population, shortens the time for breed improvement compared to conventional artificial insemination, increases milk yield potential, and strengthens the economic viability of dairy farming in the islands.
The initiative aligns with the department’s long-term strategy to achieve self-sufficiency in milk production, improve nutritional security, and support rural and tribal livelihoods through modern reproductive technologies. AH&VS plans to expand the programme across additional clusters and islands in future phases, covering all major milk-producing regions of the Union Territory.
Cattle owners interested in the ETT programme are encouraged to contact their nearest veterinary institution for further information. The project is expected to significantly enhance dairy productivity and modernize livestock management in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
