The Department of Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services organised an awareness programme and dairy farmers’ meeting at the Veterinary Hospital, Campbell Bay, focusing on the promotion of Conventional Artificial Insemination (AI) and Sex Sorted Semen (SSS) AI. The initiative aimed to educate local farmers on advanced breeding technologies to improve milk productivity and livestock economy in Nicobar District.
The programme saw active participation from local stakeholders, including the Up-Pramukh of Great Nicobar Island, Pradhans of Govind Nagar and Campbell Bay Gram Panchayats, Up-Pradhan of Campbell Bay, several Panchayati Raj Institution (PRI) members, and around 30 cattle farmers representing Govind Nagar, Campbell Bay, and Laxmi Nagar Gram Panchayats. Farmers and local leaders engaged actively in discussions, sharing field experiences and seeking clarification on practical implementation of AI and SSS AI techniques.
Dr K A Naveen, Director of Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services, addressed the participants virtually, highlighting the benefits of advanced breeding technologies. He emphasised that adoption of conventional AI and Sex Sorted Semen AI can increase milk productivity, enhance the female calf ratio, and support overall dairy development in the region. The SSS AI technology, he explained, offers a higher probability of female calves, helping farmers improve dairy output while reducing the population of unwanted male calves.
The session provided practical guidance on accessing AI services, availing subsidy schemes, and doorstep delivery of AI facilities. Officials encouraged farmers to adopt scientific breeding practices to strengthen livestock productivity and income generation. Local leaders assured their support in mobilising more farmers to participate in the programme and implement the advanced breeding techniques in their cattle-rearing practices.
The awareness programme underscores the Administration’s commitment to promoting modern agricultural and livestock practices in remote areas, ensuring sustainable development and improved livelihoods for farmers. By combining education, practical guidance, and local leadership support, the initiative seeks to enhance dairy productivity, encourage scientific livestock management, and build a stronger livestock economy in Nicobar District.
Farmers expressed optimism about adopting the technologies and implementing AI and SSS AI practices in their herds, reflecting a growing awareness of the importance of advanced breeding methods in improving rural livelihoods and dairy sector efficiency.
