IVRI Produces Sahiwal Calves Using Advanced OPU-IVF-ET Technology

For India’s livestock sector the Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI) has successfully produced the Sahiwal indigenous breed calves using advanced reproductive technology. This breakthrough marks the first successful use of OPU–IVF–ET technology at the institute and it was announced on the 22nd March, 2026. Just five days after starting on February 28 2026 nearly five healthy calves were born and this showcasing India’s growing strength in scientific livestock innovation.

What is the IVRI Breakthrough

This breakthrough was achieved by the ICAR–Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI) Izatnagar, Bareilly, under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR).

Scientists used the combination of advanced techniques like Ovum Pick-Up (OPU), In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) and Embryo Transfer (ET) to produce high-quality Sahiwal calves.

It is significant achievement because it demonstrates the ability to rapidly multiply the superior indigenous cattle which traditionally takes some years through natural breeding.

The calves were produced using elite genetic material and with this will ensuring improved milk productivity and better breed quality.

Understanding OPU–IVF–ET Technology

This is an advanced reproductive technique which used to enhance genetic potential in animals.

It also involves collecting eggs (oocytes) from a donor animal after fertilizing them in a laboratory and in the last to transferring the embryo to a surrogate mother.

This method allows scientists to produce the multiple offspring from high-yielding animals in a short time as compare to traditional breeding.

It also helps to preserving and improving indigenous breeds like Sahiwal, Tharparkar and Murrah buffalo.

At IVRI, scientists successfully standardized this technology under both farm and field conditions, making it practical for large-scale use in India.

Key Highlights of the Achievement

The success of this program is backed by impressive scientific results. Within just five days the five healthy Sahiwal calves were born. It also marking a rapid and efficient outcome.

The donor cow which was used in the process produced over the 12 litres of milk per day.

While the semen came from a genetically superior bull with a lactation yield of around 3,320 kg and it ensuring strong genetic traits in the calves.

Scientists also demonstrated the ability to retrieve oocytes even without hormonal stimulation by achieving strong averages across breeds it further strengthens the technology’s applicability.

Importance of Indigenous Breeds Like Sahiwal

The Sahiwal breed is one of India’s most important indigenous dairy cattle.

This cattle is known for its high milk yield, heat tolerance and disease resistance.

These qualities of cow make it highly suitable for Indian climatic conditions.

Although indigenous breeds have faced various challenges due to crossbreeding and declining population in some regions.

This breakthrough will helps to preserving genetic purity while improving productivity and striking the balance between conservation and development.

About ICAR-IVRI

The Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI) is located in Izatnagar, Bareilly.

It is one of the India’s premier institutes for veterinary and animal sciences research.

It operates under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR).

And plays a key role in livestock health, disease control, breeding technologies and dairy research.

Question

Q. Which institute achieved success in producing Sahiwal calves using OPU-IVF-ET technology?

A. NABARD
B. ICAR-IVRI
C. ICMR
D. NDDB