Sri Vijaya Puram, May 15: The Department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services (AH&VS) is implementing the Accelerated Breed Improvement Programme – Sex Sorted Semen (ABIP-SSS) scheme across the Andaman and Nicobar Islands as part of efforts to support dairy farmers and improve livestock productivity.
The programme promotes the use of Sex Sorted Semen technology through Artificial Insemination to increase the probability of female calf births, thereby helping farmers strengthen dairy herd capacity and improve milk production.
The technology, promoted by the Government of India, is intended to reduce the economic burden associated with rearing unwanted male calves while supporting long-term dairy development.
Officials stated that under the ABIP-SSS scheme in the Islands, a total of 51 calves have been born so far, including 30 female calves.
The Department said the results indicate growing adoption of the technology among livestock farmers in different parts of the Islands.
At present, Sex Sorted Semen doses of improved Jersey Crossbred and Sahiwal germplasm are being made available through Veterinary Hospitals and Dispensaries at a subsidised rate of Rs. 250 per dose.
The scheme also includes a refund provision in cases where Artificial Insemination does not result in conception.
During the financial year 2025–26, refunds were reportedly provided to 26 farmers whose animals failed to conceive under the programme.
The refund provision has been included to reduce financial risk for farmers opting for the service.
The livestock sector continues to play an important role in supporting rural livelihoods in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, particularly in areas where small-scale dairy farming contributes to household income and local milk supply.
Veterinary officials noted that improving cattle breeds and reproductive efficiency remains one of the major challenges for dairy farmers in geographically isolated island regions where access to breeding resources can be limited.
The department has appealed to livestock farmers across the Islands to make use of the ABIP-SSS scheme and approach nearby Veterinary Hospitals or Dispensaries for information and services related to Artificial Insemination and breed improvement programmes.
