Sri Vijaya Puram, Aug. 26: The Andaman & Nicobar Administration has strengthened the technical capacity of its veterinary workforce with the second batch of three Senior Veterinary Officers undergoing specialised training in Embryo Transfer Technique (ETT), an advanced assisted reproductive technology aimed at supporting livestock breeding and reproductive management.
The training programme was organised by NDDB Dairy Services at the Central Cattle Breeding Farm (CCBF), Dhamrod, near Surat in Gujarat, from August 17 to 22, 2026.
The three officers were deputed by the Department of Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services, Andaman & Nicobar Administration, to receive both theoretical and practical exposure to embryo transfer and related reproductive technologies.
During the programme, the officers underwent comprehensive theoretical sessions covering the estrous cycle, hormonal control, synchronisation of estrus, reproductive physiology and various procedures associated with embryo transfer.
The training was not limited to classroom instruction. Participants also attended practical sessions involving reproductive organ palpation, identification of reproductive status and hands-on techniques associated with embryo transfer. According to the department, the practical exposure helped participants develop a better understanding of assisted reproductive technologies and their application in livestock management.
The officers were also given demonstrations covering various stages of the embryo production process. These included ovum pick-up, collection of oocytes or ova, embryogenesis, embryo freezing and cryopreservation, thawing techniques and transportation of embryos.
The procedures followed at NDDB were demonstrated systematically, allowing the participating officers to gain practical exposure to the different stages involved in embryo production and transfer.
The programme also included refresher sessions and interactive discussions, which were aimed at strengthening the participants’ existing knowledge of advanced reproductive technologies in livestock.
Embryo transfer technology is an assisted reproductive approach that can form part of breeding and genetic improvement programmes. The training therefore provides the Islands’ veterinary officers with specialised skills that could contribute to strengthening reproductive management and breeding programmes within the local livestock sector.
The training concluded with a valedictory function, during which certificates of successful completion were awarded to the participating officers.
The Department of Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services described the programme as informative and beneficial, providing the officers with theoretical knowledge as well as practical exposure to embryo transfer technology and other assisted reproductive techniques.
For the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, where livestock management and animal husbandry are important components of the rural economy, developing specialised technical expertise among veterinary personnel could help expand the range of reproductive management services available to farmers.
The department said the knowledge and skills gained through the training will be useful in strengthening breeding and reproductive management programmes in the Islands.
The latest training also follows the participation of an earlier batch of officers in specialised capacity-building initiatives, with the department continuing efforts to enhance technical expertise in animal husbandry and veterinary services.
The focus on advanced reproductive technologies reflects an effort to equip veterinary personnel with specialised knowledge that can be applied to future livestock development and breeding initiatives in the territory.
