India-Brazil Dairy Genomics MoU: Embrapa Partnership
Why in the news
India and Brazil agreed on a joint genetic improvement programme for dairy animals, billed as the first across continents.
Key facts
- Signed at the Embassy of India, Brasília.
- Brazil: Embrapa (state research body under MAPA), Fazenda Floresta, DNAMark. India: Leads Genetics, B.L. Kamdhenu Farms, Leads Connect Services.
- Pilot in Uttar Pradesh, the top milk-producing State.
Objectives
- Build a Cattle and Buffalo Genomics Laboratory in India.
- Combine Brazilian genetic technology with indigenous Indian breeds.
- Species: Bos indicus, Bos taurus, Bubalus bubalis.
- Raise milk yield, fertility and climate resilience.
Infrastructure and significance
- 10,000-head model dairy farm at Bareilly, a Centre of Excellence, IVF and genomics labs.
- Data-driven breeding for farmers and a circular dairy economy.
Exam angle
- Brazilian partner Embrapa; farm at Bareilly.