MANDI: With modern technology transforming agriculture and animal husbandry, livestock farmers in Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh are increasingly opting for sexed semen straw injections. These injections, used for artificial insemination in cows, offer a 90 per cent probability of producing female calves. Although the overall conception rate is low, the high likelihood of female calves has made these injections popular among farmers.The Animal Husbandry Department in Mandi has received 7,000 doses so far, of which 5,000 have been distributed in the field and 3,000 have already been used. According to Dr Atul Puri, Deputy Director of the Animal Husbandry Department, Mandi, 224 successful conceptions have been recorded so far, resulting in 18 male calves and the rest being female.
Rs 1,250 injections available for just Rs 125
Dr Puri explained that each dose costs Rs 1,250, but through government subsidies from both the central and state levels, it is being provided to farmers for just Rs 125. This initiative aims to support farmers financially while addressing the issue of surplus male calves.
High demand for Jersey and Sahiwal breeds
Most of the injections are designed for Jersey cows as they are the most sought-after breed among farmers. Additionally, doses for Sahiwal and HF (Holstein Friesian) breeds are also available. These injections are administered exclusively at veterinary clinics by trained doctors or expert pharmacists.
Potential solution to stray cattle problem
Currently, stray cattle pose a significant issue, with 70-80% of the stray population consisting of male cattle. This situation arises as farmers have stopped rearing bulls. However, the increasing use of sexed semen straw injections is expected to reduce the number of male calves in the future, potentially alleviating the stray cattle problem.To meet the growing demand, the Animal Husbandry Department has requested an additional 500 doses. Dr Puri stated that awareness programs and government support are helping popularise this technology, encouraging more farmers to adopt it.
