Assam Celebrates Birth of First IVF Calf: A Milestone in Dairy Science

In a groundbreaking achievement for Assam's dairy sector, scientists have successfully birthed the state's first IVF calf using advanced embryo transfer technology. This milestone not only signifies a leap in genetic improvement for livestock but also promises to enhance milk production and farmers' income. Led by Dr. Manjyoti Bhuyan and his team, this success is expected to pave the way for broader adoption of reproductive technologies in the region. The healthy female calf, born on March 26, weighs 23 kilograms and is part of the esteemed Gir breed. The team anticipates further advancements in the coming months, including the birth of crossbred calves, contributing to breed development and conservation efforts.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 29, 2026, 11:31 IST

Groundbreaking Achievement in Assam's Dairy Sector

GUWAHATI, March 29: In a remarkable advancement for Assam's livestock and dairy industry, scientists have successfully delivered the state's inaugural IVF calf through cutting-edge embryo transfer techniques.

This significant achievement represents a major leap in utilizing Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) aimed at enhancing genetic quality and boosting dairy production in the area.

The success was spearheaded by a committed group of researchers, including Dr. Manjyoti Bhuyan, an Associate Professor in the Department of Animal Reproduction, Gynaecology & Obstetrics (ARGO) and Nodal Officer of the RGM-funded IVF Laboratory at the College of Veterinary Science, Assam Veterinary & Fishery University, located in Khanapara, Guwahati.

Joining him were co-researchers Dr. Manna Baruti and Dr. Raju Deka, both assistant professors at CVSc, AVFU, Khanapara.

The healthy female calf, part of the esteemed Gir cattle breed, was born on March 26 at 5:30 AM at a dairy farm in the Sonapur region of Kamrup (Metro) district. At birth, the calf weighed 23 kilograms and was reported to be lively and in good health.

This achievement is particularly noteworthy as it showcases the effective application of IVF and embryo transfer technologies in real-world conditions in Assam. These innovations facilitate the rapid increase of superior genetic stock, thereby improving milk yield and enhancing farmers' earnings.

The team expressed their pride in this accomplishment, viewing it as a significant and motivating moment for both the scientific community and livestock farmers in the state. They highlighted that this success will encourage broader adoption of advanced reproductive technologies throughout Assam and the Northeast region.

Looking ahead, the scientists indicated that this is merely the start of a series of anticipated results from the ongoing IVF initiative. In the upcoming months, they expect the arrival of the first IVF-borne Lakhimi and Lakhimi × Gir crossbred calves at their RGM dairy farm, which will further aid in breed development and conservation efforts.

Staff Reporter