Sri Vijaya Puram, March 12: The Department of AH&VS has achieved a major milestone by completing the training programme in Artificial Insemination (AI) for Cattle & Buffalo for the first batch of 13 Veterinary Compounders at Kerala Livestock Development Board (KLDB). This initiative has significantly enhanced dairy productivity, genetic upgradation, and efficient breeding services across the islands, reflecting the Department’s strong commitment to modernizing livestock management and providing specialised training to its para-veterinary staff.
The 30-day training programme, held at KLDB’s Kolahalamedu Training Centre from Jan. 29 to Feb. 27, combined intensive theory and practical sessions, followed by a 60-day field practice in the A&N Islands. The curriculum covered essential topics which equipped the trainees with the skills to perform AI effectively, ensuring higher conception rates and improved livestock quality under the islands’ unique geographical and logistical challenges.
Smt. Pallavi Sarkar, IAS, Secretary (AH&VS), stated, “This training is a crucial investment in our para-veterinary staff, enabling them to deliver advanced breeding services that will boost milk production, improve farmer incomes, and contribute to nutritional security in remote areas.” The Department plans to send subsequent batches to complete training for all para-veterinary staff this year, aligning with its goal of strengthening dairy development and sustainable rural livelihoods in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands.