July 13, 2010

"The Saurashtra region possesses valuable breeds of Gir cow and Jaffrabadi buffaloes, which are among the best in the state with respect to milk yield and fat content. While the Gir cow has been a prominent milch breed of the country, Jaffrabadi buffaloes are unique in high milk fat content with high milk yield," said JAU vice-chancellor Dr NC Patel.

"However, there is a great potential for growth in the performance traits of both these breed of animals, which can be achieved through planned implementation of a selective breeding programme aided by modern biotechnological tools," he added.

Dr Patel said, "The project is aimed at producing high pedigree calves from elite cows and buffaloes and catering to the need of the breeding tract." In the initial phase of the project, 50 superior quality Gir cows and Jaffrabadi she-buffaloes will be purchased based on their yield and breed characteristics. Breeding bulls will be transferred from an existing cattle breeding farm in JAU.