A Leap Forward in Indigenous Breeding: ICAR–IVRI’s Breakthrough in Producing Sahiwal Calves through Advanced Reproductive Technologies

In a significant stride for India’s livestock science, the ICAR–Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly has achieved a landmark breakthrough successfully producing indigenous Sahiwal cattle calves using advanced Assisted Reproductive Technologies. This accomplishment marks the first-ever success of its kind at the institute using ultrasound-guided ovum pick-up, in vitro fertilization, and embryo transfer (OPU–IVF–ET), opening new avenues for rapid genetic improvement of indigenous bovine breeds.

The journey toward this milestone began in 2022–23, when ICAR–IVRI initiated a focused programme aimed at strengthening the genetic potential of India’s prized dairy breeds. With a clear vision, scientists set out to standardize OPU–IVF–ET protocols under both farm and field conditions, targeting key indigenous breeds such as Sahiwal cattle, Tharparkar cattle, and Murrah buffalo.

Through sustained research, precision, and innovation, the team steadily refined their techniques. Their efforts culminated in a remarkable achievement—within just five days starting 28 February 2026, five healthy Sahiwal calves were born using OPU–IVF–ET technology. These calves were not just a scientific success but a genetic leap forward, produced from superior germplasm. The donor was a high-yielding Sahiwal cow producing over 12 litres of milk per day, while semen from a proven bull with an impressive maternal lineage (approximately 3,320 kg lactation yield) ensured strong genetic merit.

Behind this success lies exceptional technical expertise. The scientists demonstrated the ability to recover oocytes even under non-stimulated conditions, achieving impressive averages across breeds around 14.5 in Tharparkar, 13.14 in Sahiwal, and 4.5–5.5 in Murrah buffalo. The efficiency of embryo development was equally noteworthy, with blastocyst production rates exceeding 47% in cattle and over 42% in buffalo benchmarks comparable to leading global laboratories.

This achievement is more than a one-time success; it represents a scalable model for the future. ICAR–IVRI now aims to expand the application of OPU–IVF–ET technology on a larger scale to accelerate the production of elite indigenous cattle and buffalo. Such efforts are expected to significantly strengthen genetic improvement programmes while ensuring the conservation of India’s valuable indigenous germplasm.

Equally important is the institute’s commitment to capacity building and innovation. By organizing hands-on training programmes in OPU–IVF–ET, ICAR–IVRI is actively nurturing skilled professionals, fostering entrepreneurship, and supporting start-ups in the livestock sector—thereby translating scientific advancements into real-world impact.

This milestone was made possible by a dedicated team of scientists led by Dr Brijesh Kumar, working in close collaboration with experts across divisions, supported by research scholars.

The programme was guided by Dr S. K. Singh, Joint Director (Research), with strong institutional backing from senior scientists and leadership, including former Directors whose vision laid the foundation for such achievements.

Commending the team, Raghavendra Bhatta, Deputy Director General (Animal Science), ICAR, and Director, ICAR-IVRI, expressed confidence that this breakthrough will pave the way for many more milestones in the field of Assisted Reproductive Technologies.

As ICAR–IVRI continues to push the frontiers of science, this success story stands as a testament to how innovation, dedication, and vision can transform the future of India’s livestock sector strengthening productivity, preserving indigenous heritage, and contributing to a more sustainable and self-reliant agricultural economy.

(Source: Department of Animal Sciences, ICAR)