Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Booh, Tarn Taran organized a Farmer-Scientist Interface on the improvement of the Nili Ravi buffalo breed under the guidance of Dr. R.S. Grewal, Director of Extension Education, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Ludhiana. The event attended by around 35 farmers of the region aimed to bridge the gap between scientific research and practical farming, focusing on breed enhancement techniques.
.jpeg)
Dr. J.P.S. Gill, Vice Chancellor appreciated for the collective efforts aimed at conserving and promoting the Nili Ravi buffalo. Dr. Gill highlighted the need for integrating scientific advancements with traditional practices to enhance productivity and preserve the genetic purity of this indigenous breed. He also reaffirmed the university’s commitment to support research, training, and outreach initiatives that empower breeders and ensure the long-term sustainability of the Nili Ravi population.
Dr. Grewal emphasized the historical and economic significance of the Nili Ravi buffalo in the Majha region, highlighting its key role in sustaining the local dairy industry while also expressing concern over its declining population and calling for urgent, collective efforts for its conservation. Dr. Grewal informed about the availability of top grade Nili Ravi semen at KVK, Booh, a step aimed at enhancing the breed’s genetic quality and productivity and also shared practical feed formulation strategies to help breeders balance cost-effective nutrition with the dietary needs of the buffaloes for improved health and milk yield. Dr. Puneet Malhotra shared his perspectives on the untapped potential of the Nili Ravi buffalo, emphasizing its capacity for higher productivity and its importance in strengthening the region’s dairy sector. Dr. Ashwani Kumar Singh provided valuable insights into reproductive management practices, highlighting key strategies to improve fertility and enhance the breeding efficiency of the Nili Ravi buffalo. Dr. Prabjeet Singh, Deputy Director (Training) at KVK, assured the breeders that they could collect the semen at their convenience, making it easier for them to incorporate advanced breeding techniques into their practices. The event was coordinated by Dr. Navjot Singh Brar and Dr. Prabhjinder Singh Maan.
