Indian Council of Agricultural Research–Indian Veterinary Research Institute (ICAR–IVRI) produces five Sahiwal calves using OPU–IVF–ET technology

Exam-focused facts from the 24 March 2026 current affairs briefing.

Key facts

ICAR–IVRI at Izatnagar, Bareilly achieved the first-ever birth of five healthy Sahiwal calves between 28 February and 4 March 2026 through ultrasound-guided ovum pick-up, in vitro fertilisation, and embryo transfer (OPU–IVF–ET).
The donor Sahiwal cow yields over 12 litres of milk per day and the proven bull used has a maternal lineage lactation yield of approximately 3,320 kg.
Average oocyte recovery under non-stimulated conditions reached 13.14 in Sahiwal, 14.5 in Tharparkar cattle, and 4.5–5.5 in Murrah buffalo.
Blastocyst production rates exceeded 47% in cattle and 42% in buffalo, benchmarks comparable to leading global laboratories.
ICAR–IVRI initiated the focused programme during 2022-23 to standardise OPU–IVF–ET protocols for Sahiwal cattle, Tharparkar cattle, and Murrah buffalo.