Patna: Scientists at Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University (RPCAU) have achieved a major breakthrough under the Centre’s Rashtriya Gokul Mission by producing the state’s first Sahiwal calves using advanced in vitro fertilisation (IVF) and embryo transfer technology.The success, recorded at both the university’s Centre of Excellence on Indigenous Breed (CoEIB) in Piprakothi and the Chakiya Goshala in Motihari, marks an important step towards promoting climate-resilient indigenous cattle and reducing dependence on heat-sensitive exotic breeds such as Holstein Friesian (HF) and Jersey.The project, funded by the department of animal husbandry and dairying (DAHD), Govt of India, was spearheaded by RPCAU scientists Pramod Kumar, Krishna Mohan Kumar and R K Asthana.Speaking on the achievement, RPCAU vice-chancellor P S Pandey said, “The Indian dairy sector has, for decades, relied heavily on European breeds. However, rising global temperatures have turned these exotic cows into a liability, as HF and Jersey breeds are increasingly vulnerable to tropical diseases and suffer from severe “conception stress,” often failing to conceive during harsh Indian summers.”He said by perfecting the ovum pick-up–IVF technique for native breeds, the university has given farmers a truly climate-smart cow. “The technology ensures that superior genetic traits such as high milk yield, heat tolerance and better milk quality are passed on in a single generation,” Pandey said.Scientists said a key driver behind the breakthrough is its focus on A2 milk, which is naturally produced by the Sahiwal breed. In contrast, exotic HF and Jersey cows produce A1 milk, which contains the BCM-7 protein fragment linked to digestive inflammation and other health concerns. A2 milk is rich in proline amino acids that prevent the formation of the inflammatory BCM-7 peptide. It also contains higher levels of calcium, vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids, besides cerebrosides known to enhance cognitive development and immunity, they said.The VC noted that the technology could be a financial game-changer for farmers. “While conventional selective breeding takes 10 to 15 years to upgrade herd genetics, IVF enables farmers to achieve a 100% elite Sahiwal herd in just one generation,” he said.Following the successful births at both the university facility and the Chakiya Goshala, RPCAU is now planning to take the model to farmers’ doorsteps across the region. As India consolidates its position as the world’s largest milk producer, the focus is shifting back to the ‘golden’ Sahiwal—a breed that is not only resilient to heat but also a powerhouse of nutrition, Pandey said.
