Genetic Improvement Project for Non-Descript Cows Completed
The Punjab Livestock Department has completed the Genetic Improvement Project for Non-Descript Cows. However, the two-year project aimed to improve the genetic quality of local cows and increase milk and meat production. Under this project, the Punjab Livestock Department provided imported semen to improve the genetic potential of cattle. The project officially ended on June 30, 2026.
The department completed the Genetic Improvement Project under the supervision of Secretary Livestock Punjab Ahmad Aziz Tarar and Director General Production Dr. Kanwar Muhammad Naeem. Under the project, field teams carried out artificial insemination on approximately 650,000 cows across Punjab.
Punjab inaugurated the Provincial Animal Disease Response Unit
Focus on Better Cattle Genetics
Director Breed Improvement Dr. Sohail Manzoor said the Genetic Improvement Project for Non-Descript Cows aimed to improve the genetic potential of local cattle. As a result, the department expects future generations to produce more milk and meat.
He said this project will help develop cattle with better genetic traits. Moreover, these improvements can increase the income of livestock farmers and strengthen their production capacity.
Genetic Improvement Project Completed in 37 Districts
According to third-party validation by The Urban Unit, the Genetic Improvement Project for Non-Descript Cows was successfully completed in 37 districts of Punjab.
During the validation process, the team verified 55,955 farmers and 123,228 animals under this project. The validation report showed encouraging results. The project achieved a 50.3% pregnancy rate, while data accuracy reached 99%. In addition, 96% of participating farmers received training.
Crossbred Calves Show Higher Birth Weight
The validation of the project also recorded positive results in crossbred calves. Their birth weight was approximately 4 to 5 kilograms higher than that of calves from local breeds.
Therefore, the higher birth weight recorded under this project indicates improved genetic traits. It also provides a positive sign for increasing future milk and meat production.
Boosting Milk and Meat Production
The Project for Non-Descript Cows aims to increase the productive capacity of Punjab’s cattle. Furthermore, the project promotes the development of better-quality breeds through improved genetics.
According to the Punjab Livestock Department, this project marks an important milestone for the livestock sector. It will support higher milk and meat production and improve the economic well-being of livestock farmers.
