Buffalo Research Institute Pattoki – BRI Pattoki
Buffalo Research Institute Pattoki is the hub of Buffalo research and innovation in Pakistan. It is working under the Directorate General Production of the Department of Livestock and Dairy Development Punjab. BRI Pattoki focuses on improving buffalo breeds, nutrition, health, and overall productivity. Buffalo farming is an integral part of Pakistan’s dairy sector, especially in Punjab. Punjab is the home of the renowned Nili Ravi buffalo breed. This institute is especially focusing on the breed improvement of Nili Ravi Buffalo through the Buffalo Progeny Testing Program and other activities.
Objectives of BRI Pattoki
Objectives of BRI Pattoki include:
- Research on all aspect of buffalo production and reproduction
- Genetic improvement of buffalo breeds through progeny Tested bulls.
- Research on buffalo nutrition, feeding requirements and digestive physiology.
- Research on buffalo diseases.
- Provision of Disease Diagnostic services to the institutional herds and private farmers
- Research and advancement in reproductive technologies and breeding practices.
- Collaboration with national and international institutions for research.
- Dissemination of information to livestock farmers.
Complete information about Punjab Livestock Department
Divisions of BRI Pattoki
Buffalo Research Institute Pattoki operates through various specialized divisions.
Breeding and Genetics Division
The Breeding and Genetics Division focuses on genetic improvement programs to enhance desirable traits in buffalo breeds, particularly the Nili Ravi buffalo. Key initiatives include:
- Implementation of the Progeny Testing Program (PTP) to evaluate and select high-performing bulls based on their progeny’s milk yield and other traits.
- Maintenance of pedigree and performance records as per ICAR (International Committee for Animal Recording) guidelines.
- Preparation and execution of breeding plans to optimize specific traits like milk production and disease resistance.
Reproduction Division
The Reproduction Division focuses on research and development in advanced reproductive technologies to improve breeding efficiency. Core activities include:
- Studies on reproductive physiology and techniques such as artificial insemination (AI) and embryo transfer.
- Addressing reproductive disorders through diagnostics and treatment.
- Provision of services of ultrasonography
Nutrition Division
The key activities of the Nutrition Division include:
- Research on Digestive physiology and dietary requirements of buffalo.
- Formulation of cost-effective and nutrient-rich feed plans for various growth stages.
- Provision of Cost-effective feed supplements including wanda and mineral mixture
- Provision of Services for lab analysis of feed and fodder
Farm and Health Division
Buffalo health management is crucial for maintaining productivity. The Farm and Health Division focuses on:
- Research on various buffalo diseases
- Diagnosis and management of buffalo diseases to minimize losses.
- Provision of disease diagnostic facilities for institutional herds and private farmers.
Economics and Technology Transfer Division
This division bridges the gap between research and farming communities. It focuses on:
- Disseminating research findings through workshops, training programs, and publications.
- Promoting buffalo farming as a viable economic activity to improve rural livelihoods.
- Facilitating technology transfer to modernize buffalo farming practices.
Activities under the Progeny Testing Program (PTP) at BRI Pattoki
The Progeny Testing Program is a primary activity of BRI Pattoki under its genetic improvement efforts. The program’s activities include:
- Registration and tagging of animals under PTP.
- Regular milk recording and insemination tracking.
- Implementing breeding and mating plans
- Data Collection, Computerization and Evaluation
This program ensures the selection of superior buffalo bulls to enhance the productivity of future generations. The districts under the Progeny testing program include Kasur, Mandi Bahauddin, Gujrat, Hafizabad, Gujranwala, Faisalabad, Toba Tek Singh, Pakpattan, Bahawalnagar, and Vehari.
BRi Pattoki has established six nucleus herds at LES Bhunikey, LES Bahadurngar, LES Chak Katora, LES Haroonabad, LES Khushab, and LES Rakh Ghulaman.
Calf Raising Centre of BRI Pattoki
The Calf Raising Centre is a pivotal part of Buffalo Research Institute Pattoki to ensure the healthy development of buffalo calves. This section raises calves for breeding programs, focusing on:
- Providing optimal nutrition and care to improve growth rates.
- Preparing calves for inclusion in breeding initiatives, ensuring genetic improvement.
Contact Buffalo Research Institute – BRI Pattoki
National High Way, neat Pattoki Sugar Mill,
Pattoki
Phone: 049-4427087
