Guwahati, June 29 (IANS) Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Monday said the state government’s large-scale artificial insemination programme is transforming the dairy sector by improving cattle breeds, boosting milk production and strengthening the rural economy.

Highlighting the initiative in a social media post, the Chief Minister said the government has connected livestock farmers with modern dairy practices to ensure sustainable growth in animal husbandry.

“Our government has launched a new initiative for rural prosperity by connecting local livestock farmers to modern dairy systems,” Sarma said.

He added that the state is steadily moving ahead in line with Prime Minister Modi’s vision of a Viksit Bharat by modernising the livestock and dairy sectors.

According to figures shared by the Chief Minister, the state carried out 6,71,826 artificial inseminations during 2025-26.

The programme has resulted in the birth of 2,12,200 healthy calves, marking a significant milestone in Assam’s efforts to improve cattle productivity and enhance farmers’ incomes.

The government said artificial insemination has emerged as a key intervention to strengthen the dairy value chain by enabling farmers to access superior cattle breeds with higher milk-yield potential.

The initiative is also expected to reduce breeding costs, improve livestock health and create better livelihood opportunities in rural areas.

Officials said the programme forms part of the state’s broader strategy to modernise the animal husbandry sector through scientific breeding, veterinary support and improved access to dairy infrastructure.

The Chief Minister said the government’s objective is to build a prosperous dairy sector capable of generating higher incomes for livestock rearers while meeting the growing demand for milk and dairy products in the state.

Animal husbandry and dairy development have remained priority sectors for the Assam government, with several schemes being implemented to improve cattle productivity, encourage scientific farming practices and strengthen the rural economy.

The state government believes that sustained investment in modern livestock management and scientific breeding techniques will play a crucial role in achieving self-reliance in milk production while contributing to rural prosperity and inclusive economic growth.

–IANS

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