PERFORMANCE ASSESSMENT OF COMMUNITY ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATION TECHNICIANS IN THE EASTERN REGION OF BHUTAN

Abstract

The study assessed the performance of Community Artificial Insemination Technicians (CAIT) in eastern region of Bhutan. All Gewogs engaging CAIT to deliver Artificial Insemination (AI) Services were sampled along with equivalent number of beneficiaries. Data were collected through face-to-face interview, using semi-structured questionnaire. Results showed that Pemagatshel Dzongkhag had the highest 22 CAITs (27%) out of 83 trained in eastern region. Among 25 CAIT interviewed, 46% are providing active AI services. Most of CAITs providing AI services were youth in their prime age of 18-30 years, with about 56% having secondary school level education. CAITs have supported AI services delivery with 1105 calves born out of 2569 AI performed resulting in calving rate of 43%. The Service per Conception (SPC) was 1.8. The calving rate and SPC is reasonably good in view of precision required in technology application vis a vis limited knowledge of beneficiaries on heat detection for timely AI service. Average inseminations/month and service charge was six and Nu.400 respectively, which however differed significantly among CAITs (p<0.000). With gradual transformation of herd structure of beneficiary households in favor of Jersey crossbred cattle (72%), contribution of CAIT towards breed improvement is eminent. This gives reason for about 80% of beneficiaries interviewed to be contended with the AI services received from CAIT. Similarly, over 57% of the CAITs were satisfied with their vocation and wish to continue it. However, income earned from the vocation is reportedly inadequate to meet financial needs. In addition, mobility problem faced, limited provision for equipment storage shed and lack of safety gears were the factors prompting discontinuations of services by other CAITs. Developing an understanding between beneficiaries to remunerate the CAITs adequately could affirm continuity of their services. Further to improve delivery of AI services by CAIT, it is recommended to address mobility problem faced, provide AI gears and other needed facilities. Besides, advocacy to the farmers on AI services and estrus detection, providing timely refresher course to CAITs would enhance efficiency of AI services delivery.