KMU introduces subsidised sex-sorted semen to boost dairy

INDIA – The Krishna Milk Union (KMU) has launched a subsidised sex-sorted semen distribution programme for dairy farmers across the combined Krishna district, to enhance dairy productivity and support rural livelihoods.

As part of the government initiative, each dose of sex-sorted semen costs ₹150. However, KMU is offering a ₹100 subsidy, reducing the price to just ₹50 per dose.

The programme is inclusive and available to all dairy farmers in the combined Krishna district, not just those affiliated with the union.

Chalasani Anjaneyulu, Chairman of the Krishna Milk Union, stated that the union is dedicated to supporting dairy farmers. He expressed confidence that this initiative will lead to sustainable rural livelihoods and strengthen the financial stability of farmers.

Kenya to adopt sexed semen technology to boost milk production

Concurrently, the Kenyan government is exploring advanced semen sexing technology to increase milk production in the country, according to Livestock Principal Secretary Jonathan Mueke. 

Reported by the State Department for Livestock, the initiative aims to boost the probability of dairy cows giving birth to heifers by over 90 percent, ensuring sustained growth in the dairy herd.

Mueke noted that discussions are underway with ABS Global, an American breeding company specializing in bovine genetics, to establish a partnership that would make sexed semen more accessible and affordable for Kenyan farmers. 

A report by the department indicated that the use of this technology is expected to enhance dairy productivity by increasing the number of female calves, which are essential for milk production.

Sexed semen technology involves processing semen in a laboratory to remove a significant percentage of Y chromosomes, which are responsible for male offspring. 

According to ABS Global, the process uses laser technology to sort sperm cells based on chromosome type, thereby increasing the likelihood of producing heifer calves. 

The procedure is carried out by identifying chromosome differences through size or DNA content, allowing technicians to separate X-bearing sperm from Y-bearing sperm with high accuracy.

ABS Global highlights that the technology does not entirely eliminate Y chromosomes but significantly reduces their presence in semen batches. 

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