Factors affecting the performance of artificial insemination in cattle at the Kalmunai veterinary range

Abstract

Artificial insemination has created a great deal of interest in genetic circles during the last few years. The objective of this study was to find the success rate, and factors affecting the AI performance of the smallholder, and to expand the efficiency of AI services. The research revealed that in the last five years the total number of AI was 65 to 70 and it’s covering the average 55 of the total cattle population of the government veterinary range Kalmunai. And the total conception rate was 79.4%, with crossbreeds having a higher conception rate. The frequency of repeated AI was relatively low, and norepeat AI performance was observed in 2017. Last five years, most AI performed with Jersey (34.2 %), Sahiwal (32.8 %) and Friesian (27.4 %). Further, the overall success rate of AI and its impact on genetic variation of the breed-able cattle population were low in the studied area. Performance and efficiency were influenced by poor infrastructural facilities, low motivation and mobility of field staff, inadequate veterinary coverage and resources and farmers' ignorance and low motivation. These results suggested the need for farmer awareness, training, and extension in this region. This is a result of farmers' lack of knowledge of the significance of the proper time of service and inadequate communication across smallholding farms. Therefore, emphasis must be placed on resolving these defects