For the first time in India scientists have succeeded in having a calf of the Banni breed of buffaloes born Saturday through IVF (in vitro fertilization), officials said.
The calf was born in the western state of Gujarat.
Banni Buffalo, a rare breed of Gujarat arid region can survive in extreme weather and is known for its high milk production.
"With the birth of the first IVF calf of a Buffalo breed namely Banni in the country, India's Ovum Pick-Up (OPU)- in vitro fertilization (IVF) work has reached next level," said a statement issued by the federal ministry of fisheries, animal husbandry and dairying.
"This first IVF Banni calf is born out of 6 Banni IVF pregnancies established at the doorsteps of a farmer at Dhanej in Somnath district of Gujarat."
Experts say the birth of the Banni Buffalo calf would open up doors for the mass production of rare Banni Buffalo.
The OPU and aspiration processes for the IVF of Banni Buffaloes were planned last year.
The ministry said both the government and the scientist fraternity see great potential in the field of IVF of buffaloes and are striving hard to improve cattle wealth in the country.
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