This story is from May 19, 2021

NDDB, GCMMF join hands for genomic selection in Gujarat

The National Dairy Development Board, Gujarat Co-operative Milk Marketing Federation (GCMMF) and other milk unions of Gujarat have decided to collaborate on expanding reference population for genomic selection. It will extend benefits of improved genetics to the farmers of the state.
NDDB, GCMMF join hands for genomic selection in Gujarat
NDDB executive director Menesh Shah with GCCMF MD RS Sodhi
VADODARA/ANAND: The National Dairy Development Board, Gujarat Co-operative Milk Marketing Federation (GCMMF) and other milk unions of Gujarat have decided to collaborate on expanding reference population for genomic selection. It will extend benefits of improved genetics to the farmers of the state.
NDDB, GCMMF and the milk unions will work together to develop standard operating procedures for recording, take up data analysis and monitor the quality of data collected.
NDDB’s executive director Meenesh Shah and GCMMF’s managing director RS Sodhi inked an MoU to this effect during a virtual ceremony on Tuesday, which was attended by many milk unions of the state.
Shah said that genomic selection is dependent on size of reference population that are performance recorded and genotyped. Accuracy of genomic selection increases with expansion of reference population.
Sodhi informed that GCMMF and milk unions of Gujarat will play a crucial role in genomic selection. “Extensive artificial insemination coverage and capacity to produce semen by milk unions will also help in faster dissemination of good genetics to farmers,” he said.
The programme will include important breeds like Gir, Kankrej and crossbred cows and Mehsana, Jaffarabadi, Murrah buffaloes. It is envisaged that all the bulls that enter Gujarat’s semen stations will be genomically selected ensuring genetic merit.
The project will fast-track genetic progress in cattle and buffaloes not only for their milk production potential but also for regular reproduction, reduced disease incidences and improved appearance.

Apart from semen stations, farmers will also be able to use genomics for selection of heifers. Apart from central government funding through NDDB, GCMMF and milk unions will also invest in performance recording, genotyping and training of manpower for this programme.
1.9L milch animals will be recorded
Around 1.9 lakh animals will be recorded in next five years for their milk production capacity, fat, SNF and protein content of milk, reproduction regularity of animals, disease incidence, animal’s body type, animal’s behaviour among others. Out of the recorded animals, more than 80,000 will be genotyped and related data will help in genomic breeding value estimation with more accuracy.
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