Explainer: India’s first genomic selection programme on indigenous cattle to reduce dependency on exotic cattle breeds

India’s dairy sector depends heavily on both cows and buffaloes, but their roles are quite different. Farmers in dairy-developed states often neglect indigenous cows, believing them to be less productive, and instead prefer crossbred cows such as Holstein Friesian or Jersey crosses with Indian breeds. Crossbreds do produce more milk, yet they frequently suffer from heat stress, infertility, high disease incidence, and higher management costs. Indigenous breeds like the Sahiwal, on the other hand, are naturally suited to Indian conditions, with strong disease resistance, better fertility and longer productive lifespans.

The only drawback is their relatively lower milk yield. To address the issue, the scientists of the ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute (NDRI) have launched a technology of genomic selection in indigenous cow breed Sahiwal, which provides a unique opportunity to bridge this productivity gap without losing the natural advantages of indigenous cattle.

Here’s what you need to know about this India’s first genomic selection technology and its advantages:

What is genomic selection programme and what steps are involved in it?

A genomic selection programme involves DNA-level information to predict genetic merit of a bull to improve accuracy, time and efficiency of breeding compared to conventional or traditional methods. In this programme, there are five steps. First is genotyping reference population using DNA chips, second is phenotyping a breed for milk production traits, third is developing an optimum prediction models linking genotypes and phenotypes, fourth is estimating Genomic Breeding Values (GBV) using prediction equations for selection candidates, and fifth is designing a breeding programme based on GBVs to maximise genetic gain and maintain diversity. Unlike conventional breeding, which depends mainly on observable traits and pedigree records, genomic selection is faster, more accurate and more efficient. This technology offers a way to increase milk production while retaining the strengths of native breeds, making dairying more sustainable and climate-resilient.

When did NDRI start this project?

ICAR-NDRI began focusing on genomic selection after international models were standardised in cross-breeds in 2020. Under the guidance of ICAR-NDRI Director Dr Dheer Singh, a team led by Dr Vikas Vohra, Head of Animal Genetics and Breeding, is driving genomic selection in Sahiwal cows, supported by colleagues Dr Rani Alex, Dr Anupama Mukherjee, Dr Gopal Gowane, and Dr TV Raja. Their objective is to develop prediction equations suitable for Indian conditions, including smallholder production systems and areas with limited pedigree records. Similar efforts are also being made at ICAR-CIRC, Meerut, and IVRI, Bareilly, while the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) is preparing to expand its genomic programmes to indigenous breeds after success with crossbreds. Amid their efforts, NDRI has become first in the country to introduce this technology in indigenous cows.

Why is the focus on the Sahiwal cow?

The Sahiwal cow is one of India’s most important indigenous breeds, known for its heat tolerance, disease resistance and ability to thrive under low-input conditions. It is also the highest milk-yielding indigenous breed, though its average production of 8–10 kg per day is still lower than that of exotic or crossbred cattle. Conventional progeny testing programmes are slow and expensive due to long generation intervals. Genomic selection can address these issues, strengthening productivity while conserving this valuable indigenous cattle resource. This technology will multiply the elite animals of this breed.

What benefits can India expect from genomic selection?

The new technology promises two to three times faster genetic gain compared to traditional methods. It allows early identification of superior bulls (within weeks after birth) and cows at the calf stage, saving time and resources. It also enables the creation of breed-specific genomic databases, reduces dependence on exotic cattle, and supports Atmanirbhar Bharat in dairying. Most importantly, it strengthens indigenous breeds, enhancing traits like heat tolerance and disease resistance, making Indian dairying more sustainable and climate-resilient.

What are the limitations of genomic selection in India?

Despite its potential, genomic selection faces hurdles. Its success depends on accurate data recording, the development of large reference populations, and active participation of farmers. Without strong support systems, the technology may not reach its full potential.

What is the global status of genomic selection?

Internationally, genomic selection has developed rapidly. In 2008–2009,   scientist Van Raden suggested the use of the genomic relationship matrix within the BLUP model, which led to genomic BLUP. By 2010, scientist Aguilar and others had proposed the single-step genomic selection method, which integrated pedigree, phenotypic and genomic data. Since then, countries like the United States have validated and applied genomic selection from 2019 onwards, while Nordic countries and the Czech Republic integrated it into dairy cattle breeding in 2024. Australia has been applying it in beef cattle for some years and partially in dairy cattle. India is successfully implementing it.