BREED IMPROVEMENT, MILK PRODUCTION AND SOCIO-ECONOMIC BENEFIT OF CONTRACT HEIFER AND BULL PRODUCTION PROGRAM IN WEST AND WEST-CENTRAL REGION OF BHUTAN

Abstract

The study assessed breed improvement of cattle, milk production and socio-economic benefit of Contract Heifer and Bull Production Program (CHBPP) in west and west central region of Bhutan. The data were gathered using semi-structure survey questionnaire in May and June 2019. A total of 471 households were visited and interviewed. Jersey cross (JX) population and animals registered under CHBPP increased by two and three folds, respectively. The study found that with the initiation of CHBPP (2007-2012) the Artificial Insemination (AI) services through adoption of progeny tested semen had contributed significantly in breed improvement (p=0.000) of the herd. Most animals in the CHBPP herds are farm born (96%) indicating adequate replacement heifers for the herd. With breed improvement over the period the average daily milk production had increased significantly (p=000) from 5.9±2.3 l (inception) to 7.8±3.0 l in 2019. The productivity of JX cows of blood level 50%, 62.5%, 75%, 87.5% and 93.75% was 5.8±1.7, 6.5±2.2, 8.4±2.3, 10.7±3.2 and 13.5±4.0 l/day respectively, differing significantly (p=0.000) in every blood level. Gross income generation by the CHBPP members through sale of milk in 2019 was four times higher than at inception. Besides, the members sold excess animals to generate added income. Thus, dairy farming with improved breed holds promise for the future as it was major source of income for 72% of farmers interviewed. Additionally, initiation of CHBPP triggered formation of dairy groups/cooperatives in the country, promoting a harmonious society and social cohesiveness. The government livestock staffs though provided adequate AI services, follow up on progeny recording remained inadequate at the moment. Further difficulty in disposal of bull calves born in the herds, irregular AI services/repeat breeding of cows remain a challenge in dairy sector development. Some critical area of interventions is timely supply of vital AI inputs adopting wider use of sex sorted semen, intensify and incentivize Community AI Technicians, upgrade skills of existing AI Technicians, and ensure effective recording system and reproductive waste management services.