Livestock experts call for preservation of local breeds

KARACHI:

National and international veterinary experts, along with progressive farmers, have underscored the urgent need to establish a Livestock Breeders Forum and initiate research to protect the country's indigenous animal breeds.

They highlighted the importance of adopting sustainable artificial insemination techniques and modern technologies to genetically improve animal breeds, thereby boosting milk and meat production and forming alliances to enhance exports.

Addressing the closing session of the two-day Livestock Breeders Forum organised by Sindh Agriculture University (SAU) Tandojam in collaboration with the Sindh Higher Education Commission, Sindh Minister for Education Syed Sardar Ali Shah stated that there remains significant potential for government support in the livestock sector.

He suggested exploring partnerships with neighbouring countries to acquire superior animal breeds and recommended that grants for improving livestock quality be provided directly to farmers.

Opposing agricultural taxation without sufficient facilities, the minister called such policies inappropriate. He also praised Sindh Agriculture University for its proactive efforts and pledged to advocate for increased support from the Sindh Cabinet.