Breeding policy strategies for genetic improvement of cattle and buffaloes in India

Abstract

Dairy cattle and buffalo production has undergone a major transformation resulting into a substantial increase in milk production thus helping our country to achieve top position in milk production in the world. Even though various animal breeding and managementprogrammes have contributed to this improvement, there are constraints hampering the growth which require proper attention by initiating realistic breeding policies for genetic improvement of cattle and buffaloes. In view of this, optimum breeding policies for various classes of cattle and buffaloes are presented with their strengths and shortcomings. Technologies for selection of superior genotypes and multiplication of their germplasm are also being discussed. Finally, some breeding policy strategies for proper implementation of these programmes are recommended for adoption.