In a significant development for the dairy sector in Northern India, the Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (Gadvasu) in Ludhiana has received a prestigious donation aimed at enhancing the genetic quality of Murrah buffaloes. The donation, a one-year-old elite Murrah bull, is expected to provide a major impetus to scientific breeding programs across Punjab and the wider region.
A Generous Donation from a Renowned Farmer
The valuable bull was donated free of cost by Shiv Kumar Redhu, a well-known dairy farmer from Hisar in Haryana. The formal handover ceremony took place at Redhu's farm in Village Balak. A university delegation, led by Ravinder Singh Grewal, the Director of Extension Education at Gadvasu, was present to accept this high-quality germplasm.
University officials highlighted that the bull possesses exceptional genetic potential, backed by detailed multi-generation performance records and DNA-verified parentage. This ensures the purity and quality of the lineage, which is crucial for scientific breeding.
Focus on Data-Driven Genetic Excellence
The donated bull originates from a highly productive female line that has been the cornerstone of Shiv Kumar Redhu's personal Murrah improvement efforts for over 15 years. During the event, the dam (mother) and grand dam (grandmother) of the bull were also showcased, underlining an extraordinary genetic heritage.
The performance records of the female lineage are remarkable:
- The dam has an HLDB-recorded first lactation yield of 3,600 kg and achieved a peak daily yield of 17.746 kg.
- The grand dam holds an NDDB-recorded yield of 5,102 kg in 305 days, with a peak yield of 26.5 kg per day. She also has an exceptional record of completing 16 lactations.
Gadvasu officials widely applauded Redhu's commitment to meticulous, data-driven animal selection and his maintenance of complete pedigree documentation. This approach sets a benchmark for modern dairy farming.
Accelerating Regional Dairy Development
Speaking on the occasion, Vice-Chancellor J P S Gill reaffirmed the university's dedication to the scientific and sustainable breed improvement of dairy animals. University authorities confirmed that the donated bull will play a pivotal role in enhancing the quality of semen production for artificial insemination and will directly contribute to ongoing genetic enhancement programs.
This collaboration between a progressive farmer and a leading veterinary university was hailed by villagers and dairy enthusiasts as a model partnership. It is seen as a powerful step to accelerate genetic progress in the Murrah buffalo population, which is vital for the prosperity of dairy farmers in Punjab and Northern India.
The initiative promises to strengthen the supply of superior genetic material, ultimately leading to buffaloes with higher milk yields, better health, and increased farmer incomes, thereby supporting the rural economy.
