WHY IN THE NEWS?

India’s first IVF (in-vitro fertilisation) calf of Banni breed of buffaloes was born at a farmer’s house in Gir Somnath district of Gujarat.

About:                                   

• Banni breed of buffalo is found primarily in the Kutch region of Gujarat.
• IVC process was carried out in a bid to enhance the number of genetically superior buffaloes for increasing milk production.
• Banni buffalo, belonging to a dairy farmer, from Dhanej village gave birth to IVF male calf.

How was this process completed?

• Embryos of Banni donors were implanted in 18 recipient buffaloes using the IVF technology.
• Banni breed had achieved six pregnancies, out of which one calf was born, at the farmer’s firm. More will be born in a few days.
• This process was carried out by JKBovagenix of NGO JK Trust which is a social initiative of Raymond Group.

About Banni buffalo

• Banni buffalo are also known as “Kutchi” or “Kundi”. This breed of buffalo is found primarily in Kutch district of Gujarat.
• The word ‘Banni’ is specific to not only the buffaloes but pasture grass species as well, that are native to this region.
• This breed of buffaloes is preserved by a local community of Kutch called the ‘Maldharis’.

Characteristics of Banni buffalo

An average Banni buffalo yields about 12 to 18 litres of milk every day. Thus, they are known for their higher milk producing capacity as well as resilience in an arid environment. They have a different genetic makeup as compared to more common breeds, allowing for longer lactation periods & high milk production potentials.