This journal caters to a wide clientele comprising veterinarians, researchers and students. Articles are included on animal breeding and genetics, immunology, biotechnology, diseases, medicine and pharmacology, anatomy and histology, surgery, pathology, physiology, nutrition, milk, meat and other animal products, housing and fisheries from India and internationally. NAAS Rating (2025): 6.2 Indexed in Elsevier Scopus, Clarivate Analytics ESCI, SJIF, DOAJ, Google Scholar and Crossref EDITORIAL BOARD Subscription Information for Print Version
The copyright of the articles published in The Indian Journal of Animal Sciences is vested with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research, which reserves the right to enter into any agreement with any organization in India or abroad, for reprography, photocopying, storage and dissemination of information. The Council has no objection to using the material, provided the information is not being utilized for commercial purposes and wherever the information is being used, proper credit is given to ICAR.
Comparison of the reproductive performances of local pigs, improved pigs and the products of their crossbreeding with stress-negative Piétrain pigs
The reproductive performance of pig breeds reared in Benin is inferior to that of exotic breeds. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of crossbreeding between locally-reared pig and the Pietrain on female reproductive performance. A total of five batches, each comprising 12 females, were created. The first group consisted of local gilts, the second of Locale-Pietrain crossbred gilts, the third of Pietrain gilts, the fourth of impoved-Pietrain crossbred gilts, and the fifth of improved gilts. The females in the first and fifth batches were mated with a local and an improved boar, respectively, while those in the other three batches were inseminated with Pietrain semen. The reproductive performance of the sows from each batch was recorded and analyzed. The results indicated that the number of live births, litter size at birth, and weaning of Pietrains and F1 females was higher than that of local sows. The rate of stillbirths was markedly elevated in Pietrain litters in comparison to those of local and F1 sows. The gestation length was found to be longer in Pietrain sows (118.66 days) than in local sows (114.3 days) and F1 females (112.75 days). The litter weight at birth and weaning of F1 piglets was significantly higher than that of local piglets. The results of the crossbreeding trials involving the improved breed did not reveal any significant variations. In sum, crossbreeding between the local breed and Pietrain improves the reproductive performance of the animals.
Pig, Reproductive performance, Republic of Benin, Stress Negative Pietrain
Copyright (c) 2025 The Indian Journal of Animal Sciences https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Effect of dietary supplementation of organic trace minerals on the performance of sows and their offsprings
Trace minerals are essential for growth, reproduction and health of pigs. Organic form of trace minerals is found to be better available compared to inorganic form in animals. This study aimed to assess the effect of dietary supplementation of organic trace minerals at different levels on the performance of sows and their progeny. Control diet was prepared by supplementing inorganic trace minerals at 100% of requirement and test diets were prepared by supplementing organic trace minerals at 100% and 75% of requirement as per NRC (2012). Each diet was assigned to six sows from 90th day of gestation to farrowing (gestation diet, fixed diet allowance) and from farrowing to weaning (lactation diet, ad libitum feeding). The daily feed consumption, body weight, body weight changes and backfat thickness of sows remained similar among different groups during gestation and lactation phases. The number of total litters born, live litters born, stillbirths and piglets weaned including percentage survivability did not differ significantly among experimental groups. No significant effect was observed in duration of farrowing and wean to estrus interval. The body weight and average daily gain of piglets born to different experimental groups were similar to each other. The complete blood profile, serum enzymes (SGOT, SGPT, ALP, CRT) and protein fractions (total protein, albumin, globulin) of sows were comparable among different groups. It was concluded that that organic trace minerals can be incorporated at 75 % of the requirement without affecting productive and reproductive performance of sows.
Organic form, Piglets, Reproductive performance, Sow, Trace minerals
Antibacterial and antibiofilm activity of methanolic Indian propolis extract against ESBL Pseudomonas isolated from buffalo mastitis
Increasing antimicrobial resistance poses a major challenge to mastitis treatment in dairy animals, highlighting the need for alternative therapeutics. This study analysed the antibacterial and antibiofilm activity of methanolic propolis extract (MPE) against extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) positive Pseudomonas spp. recovered from mastitis affected Murrah buffaloes. Of the 175 environmental isolates from mastitis-affected buffalo milk (n= 472 animals), Pseudomonas spp. accounted for 23.4% (n=41), making it the second most prevalent pathogen after Escherichia coli (24.6%). Six clinical ESBL positive Pseudomonas isolates were selected for analysis. MPE exhibited antibacterial activity with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) in the range of 7.81 to 15.62 mg/mL. Scanning electron microscopy and fluorescence microscopy revealed membrane disruption in treated cells, and flow cytometry further confirmed a high proportion of apoptotic cells post-treatment. All isolates were strong biofilm producers, and MPE showed significant antibiofilm activity with 72.5± 0.39% and 71.2 ± 0.95% biofilm inhibition at 2MIC and MIC, respectively. The findings indicate that Indian propolis is a promising natural alternative with potent antibacterial and antibiofilm activity against Pseudomonas associated with bovine mastitis.
Antibacterial, Antibiofilm, Environmental mastitis ESBL, Propolis, Pseudomonas, Minimum inhibitory concentration
Prevalence and determinants of false pregnancy diagnosis in buffaloes: Field evidence from Andhra Pradesh, India
Accurate and timely pregnancy diagnosis is vital for efficient reproductive management and economic sustainability in buffalo husbandry. This study examines prevalence and determinants of false pregnancy diagnosis in buffaloes under field conditions across four major buffalo–rearing districts of Andhra Pradesh: Guntur, Prakasam, Krishna and Nellore. A multistage random sampling method yielded data from 240 dairy farmers and 415 buffaloes, capturing information on visual observation of estrus for pregnancy diagnosis (VOB) at 21±3–days intervals and rectal palpation (RP) conducted 60–120 days post-AI. The diagnostic accuracy of both methods was evaluated for sensitivity, specificity, predictive values and overall accuracy. VOB, though widely used, showed high sensitivity but low specificity, resulting in a considerable rate of false positives. In contrast, RP demonstrated significantly higher accuracy and reliability. Binary logistic regression was employed to identify factors influencing false diagnosis. For VOB, increased farmer experience and awareness significantly reduced false diagnosis risk, while larger herd sizes, poor body condition, reproductive disorders and high ambient temperatures elevated the risk. For RP, higher animal parity reduced false diagnosis odds, whereas poor body condition and specific seasonal contexts slightly compromised accuracy.
Buffaloes, False diagnosis, Pregnancy diagnosis, Rectal palpation, Visual observation
Breed, age, and gender correlations with discospondylitis in dogs: A radiological perspective
This study presents 14 cases of discospondylitis (DS) of the thoracic, lumbar and lumbosacral spine in dogs, providing a detailed analysis of breed, gender, age distribution, and the localization of radiologically diagnosed changes. Utilizing radiography, computed tomography (CT), and myelography, the research targeted the identification of typical DS indicators such as erosions of vertebral end-plates, narrowing of intervertebral spaces, and adjacent lytic changes. The study confirmed a higher susceptibility of DS in large breeds, particularly mixed breeds and German Shepherds, aligning with existing literature that links the condition to increased spinal strain. Significant findings include a notable prevalence of DS in male dogs and a higher incidence in young to middle-aged dogs, especially those aged 3 to 6 years. The lumbar segments L4-L6 were most frequently affected. The study emphasizes the need for early and accurate diagnosis, highlighting the effectiveness of CT in detecting subtle changes not always visible on initial radiographs. Overall, the research underscores the importance of recognizing breed and age-related predispositions to improve diagnostic approaches and treatment outcomes for discospondylitis in dogs.
Copyright (c) 2024 The Indian Journal of Animal Sciences https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Genetic polymorphism of LHX4 gene and its association with growth and reproductive traits in goats of Odisha
The purpose of this study was to investigate the genetic variation in exon 6 of the LHX4 gene in Ganjam and Black Bengal goats. DNA was extracted from the buccal swab samples. By using specific primers, the target partial sixth exon of the LHX4 gene was amplified (382 bp). PCR amplification and DNA sequencing analysis revealed two non- synonymous transitions namely c.44997A>G and c.45028 C>A which caused a change in amino acid from histidine to glutamic acid and valine to isoleucine, respectively. Genotype frequencies in the Ganjam population were 0.32 and 0.68 for GG and AA genotypes, whereas the same in the Black Bengal population were 0.10 and 0.90 for GG and AA genotypes, respectively. The heterozygote GA genotype was missing in both populations and significantly deviated from the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. The Black Bengal goat had a significantly smaller body size than the Ganjam goat. Black Bengal goats had a significantly greater twinning percentage than the Ganjam breed. They also had a significantly lower age at sexual maturity (ASM), age at first kidding (AFK), and shorter kidding intervals (KI) than the Ganjam goats underscoring their superior reproductive potential. Except for chest girth, the effect of genotypes on body weight and morphometric traits was determined to be statistically non-significant. The effect of genotype was found to be non-significant on the reproductive traits.
Genetic polymorphism, LHX4, Morphometric traits, Reproductive traits
Salmonella induced abortion storm in donkeys at tropical southern agroclimatic zone of Tamil Nadu
A commercial donkey farm at Tirunelveli with 323 pregnant donkeys was facing an abortion storm affecting 53 (16.4%) pregnant jennies in the last trimester, which were presented to LAC-OP-OG unit of Veterinary Clinical Complex, Veterinary College and Research Institute, Tirunelveli. Clinical examination revealed pyrexia (39.4℃) and congested conjunctival mucous membrane. Gynaecological examination revealed oedematous vulva with serosanguinous vaginal discharge. Ultrasonography examination revealed the presence of corpus luteum, medium-sized follicles, thickened uterine endometrium and fluid accumulation at the tip of both uterine horns. Serum progesterone and cortisol levels were 5.35±0.28 ng/mL and 6.14±0.13 ng/mL, respectively. Microbiological examination of foetal fluids revealed gram-negative bacilli which was confirmed as Salmonella spp. Histopathology of aborted foetal parts revealed cellular degenerative changes. All jennies were treated with antibiotics, and antihistamines along with intrauterine douching for five consecutive days. Other pregnant jennies in the farm were isolated and prophylactic antibiotics and immune booster supplements were administered. Thus, this study documented unconventional infectious agent such as Salmonellosis emerging as a leading cause of abortion storm and reproductive loss in donkey farming in Tamil Nadu.
Abortion, Jennies, Parasympathetic dominance, Salmonellosis
Physicochemical traits and mineral concentrations in meat of broiler chickens fed diets with granulated fats of palm oil (prilled fats and calcium soaps)
This study evaluated physicochemical characteristics and mineral composition in meat of broiler chickens fed diets containing prilled fats of palm oil (PFPO) and/or calcium soaps of palm oil (CaSPO) replacing vegetable oil (VO). Meat samples of breast and thigh were obtained from 40 carcasses randomly selected from 200 male broiler chickens previously fed diet containing PFPO and/or CaSPO for 42 days in a 2×2 factorial randomized design. Two levels of (0 and 50%) of treatment (n=10) were used for PFPO and CaSPO each. The level was the substitution of VO for granulated fats. Breast meat had lower ether extract in birds fed PFPO diets (main effect, p=0.02). Water, crude protein, pH, lightness (L*), redness (a*) and yellowness (b*) were not influenced by treatment. In thigh meat, the concentrations of water, ash and ether extract showed an interaction effect (PFPO×CaSPO). Crude protein concentration, (L*) and (a*) were not influenced by treatment. Granulated fats (PFPO or CaSPO) increased the yellowness value (b*; main effect). The meat of breast or thigh showed interaction effect for calcium (PFPO×CaSPO); calcium concentration was lower in the meat of chickens fed diets with PFPO. Sodium was lower in meat of chickens fed diets with PFPO (main effect). Results revealed that granulated fats of palm oil (CaSPO or PFPO) had a small influence on the physicochemical characteristics of meat from broiler chickens. Calcium or ether extract in meat were reduced with PFPO addition in the diets.
Broiler chicken, Meat, Palm oil, Prilled fats, Saponified fats
Association of diversity in microsatellite genotypes with layer traits in Rhode Island Red chicken
Development of vast varieties of high-yielding commercial poultry germplasm can be attributed to rapid selection and controlled breeding. However, their maximum genetic production potential has not been achieved so far. The present study was conducted to analyze polymorphisms in egg production associated microsatellite markers in the sampled population of the selected strain of Rhode Island Red (RIR) chicken and to determine the association between various genotypes of polymorphic markers and layer production traits. One hundred and eleven pullets belonging to five hatches of RIR, maintained at the institute’s farm were used and data on body weight at 20 weeks of age (BW20) and layer economic traits. Age at sexual maturity (ASM), egg weight at 28 and 40 weeks of age (EW28, EW40) and egg production up to 40 weeks of age (EP40) were analyzed by least squares analysis of variance taking sire as random and hatch as fixed effects. Average ASM and EP40 were 135.19±1.15 days and 124.55±1.94 eggs, respectively. The BW20 revealed low, but positive genetic as well as phenotypic correlations with EP40 thereby suggested its usefulness as a selection criterion for genetic improvement of egg production. All egg production-associated microsatellite loci revealed polymorphism and exhibited a prevalence of heterozygosity. The studied population demonstrated Hardy-Weinberg disequilibrium. Genotypes at two microsatellite loci ADL0023 and ADL0273 demonstrated significant effects on layer economic traits suggesting the probable usefulness of these microsatellite markers polymorphism in marker-assisted selection for genetic improvement of egg production in RIR chicken.
Association, Layer economic traits, Microsatellites, Polymorphisms, Rhode Island Red chicken
Assessing the potential of cassava as wheat substitute for economic meat production in White Pekin ducks
This research was completed on 240-day-old White Pekin ducklings to conclude the potential of cassava (Manihot esculenta) tubers as a cost-effective alternative to wheat in duck diets and to assess its impact on the effectiveness of the feed, meat production, and carcass quality of the ducklings. The ducklings were allotted randomly into three groups; each fed by one of the formulated experimental diets up to a time of eight weeks: control diet with no cassava (Cassava-0), and two experimental diets replacing 50% (Cassava-50) or 100% (Cassava-100) of the wheat. All three new diets were iso-nitrogenous (21.79-22.41% CP) and iso-caloric (2866-2889 kcal ME/kg). No significant difference in body weight was observed among the groups (2290.39-2338.83 g), and the daily feed intake (DFI) in the Cassava-100 group (127.59 g) was comparable to that in the Cassava-0 (126.69 g) and Cassava-50 (136.04 g) groups. The cumulative feed intake was comparable between the Cassava-100 (5548.01 kg) and Cassava-0 (5573.61 kg) groups but was lower than that of the Cassava-50 group (5689.30 kg). The 8th week cumulative FCR in the Cassava-100 group (2.37) was significantly lower than that in the Cassava-50 group (2.48) but was comparable to that of the Cassava-0 group (2.44). Furthermore, the feed intake and nutrient metabolisability remained consistent between both levels of wheat replacement (cassava -50 and cassava 100). The eviscerated weight at 6th week (range 62.43 to 65.21%) and 8th week (64.98 to 65.85) and the primal cut-up parts viz. neck, legs, breast, back and wings did not vary significantly across the groups Among the three experimental feeds, Cassava-100 (Rs. 31.56/kg) was the most economical, followed by Cassava-50 (Rs. 31.95/kg) and Cassava-0 (Rs. 32.50/kg) was the most expensive one, suggesting that wheat can fully be an economically viable alternative to cassava tubers in White Pekin duck diets for meat production for up to eight weeks.
Cassava, Ducks, Meat, Metabolisability, Tubers, Wheat, White Pekin
Chromosomal and plasmid DNA mediated antibiotic resistance among Staphylococcus aureus obtained from mastitic milk of cattle in Jaipur, Rajasthan
The present investigation was aimed to isolate and identify the Staphylococcus aureus isolates from mastitic milk sample of cattle along with studies of phenotypic and genotypic antibiotic resistance pattern. Among 100 mastitic milk samples of cattle, total 20 (20.0%) isolates were identified and confirmed as S. aureus. Out of the total identified isolates, 17 (85.0%) isolates having multidrug resistance (MDR) property including 11 (55.0%) isolates had 0.2 or more than 0.2 MAR index value with high-risk potential source of spread MDR. In antibiotic sensitivity studies, Gentamicin, Doxycycline Hydrochloride and Tetracycline antibiotics were most effective with 85.0%, 65.0% and 60.0% efficacy, respectively while highest resistance was recorded against Penicillin–G (80.0%). In reference to specific resistance mechanisms, six (30.0%) isolates were detected as MRSA and one (C58) isolate had High- level mupirocin resistance. None of the isolate was detected as VRSA along with average 1.37mcg/ml MIC for vancomycin. Both chromosomal as well as plasmid DNA were evaluated for detection of antibiotic resistance genes i.e. eighteen isolates (90.0%) were carrying blaZ gene (517bp) in chromosomal DNA, while twelve isolate (60.0%) having same gene in plasmid DNA. Only one (C69) isolate was positive for mecA (533bp) gene in both chromosomal and plasmid DNA and none of the isolate was found positive for vanA (560bp) and vanX (480bp) gene.
Cattle, Mastitis, MRSA, Staphylococcus aureus, VRSA
Changes in the abomasal contents of pre ruminant calves fed probiotics and kitchen herbs fortified in whole milk
The aim of the study was to determine curd formation in abomasum of the pre-ruminant calves when fed whole milk fortified with probiotics and kitchen herbs (carom seeds, cinnamon and turmeric) as prophylaxis against calf diarrhoea. Ultrasonographic imaging reveals that these products enhanced clotting process and abomasal emptying. It can be suggested that addition of probiotics and herb mix in whole milk accelerated the process of gastric emptying less than 3 hours (hrs) of feeding.
Abomasal Curd, Kitchen herbs, Pre-ruminant Calves, Probiotics, Ultrasonography
Phenotypic and genetic characterization of Halari donkey of Gujarat
Halari donkey have a habitat of Halar and adjoining regions includes Jamnagar, Surendranagar and Devbhumi Dwarka districts of Gujarat. On the basis of phenotypic and molecular characterization, it got registration as a new breed of donkey with the accession number INDIA_DONKEY_0400_HALARI_05002 and considered as first donkey breed of Gujarat. A total of 269 animals includes 28 males and 241 females were examined for body measurements. Halari donkey possessed predominantly white coat colour along with grayish black muzzle, white eyelid, black hooves and white tail switch in almost 100% of males and females of Halari donkey. The ears in Halari donkey were predominantly erect in majority of population, however, laterally oriented ears were also observed. The tail setting was observed predominantly upto hock joint followed by its position beyond hock and above hock joint. The temperament is generally docile; however, nervous temperament was also rarely observed. The average face length, face width, ear length, ear width was observed as 46.86+ 0.09, 16.89+ 0.20, 28.64+0.16 and 10.64+ 0.12 cm in males while, 46.56+0.04, 19.60+ 0.06, 29.53+ 0.05 and 12.36+ 0.04 cm in females, respectively. The age at puberty, age at first service in male, age at first oestrus, oestrus cycle duration, oestrus duration, age at first heat, age at first foaling, service period, foaling interval, gestation period and lifetime number of foaling were observed as 12.95 months, 26.77 months, 13.30 months, 20.40 days, 6.72 days, 25.20 months, 36.93 months, 11.30 days, 12.15 months, 12 months and 7.83 number, respectively. Molecular characterization of 81 Halari donkey using 26 pairs of primers indicated 23 markers to be polymorphic. The observed heterozygosity (Ho) ranged from 0.0 to 0.788 for Halari donkey indicating considerable variation in the distribution of allele frequencies between loci observed in Halari donkey. Medium average number of observed alleles (5.87) in Halari donkey population with average observed heterozygosity value > 0.40 indicates less genetic variability existing in this population.
Genetic characterization, Halari donkey, Phenotypic characterization, Polymorphism
Study on prevalence of ESBL producing multi drug resistant E. coli in livestock and poultry in Patna district of Bihar state, India
Antimicrobial resistance is considered one of the greatest public health threat undermining the effectiveness of antibiotics. Occurrence of Extended spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) producing multidrug resistant (MDR) E. coli in human and animal poses a clinical and epidemiological challenge. The aim of the present study was to determine the occurrence of ESBL-producing MDR E. coli among healthy livestock and chicken and to investigate the types of ESBL genes circulating among livestock in Patna district of Bihar. A total of 254 samples from apparently healthy animals and chickens were collected from sixteen villages of Patna district which comprised of raw milk, rectal swabs and chicken cloacal swab. Out of 254 samples processed a total 148 isolates were confirmed as E. coli. After isolation and confirmation of E. Coli resistance profile were generated by disc diffusion method. The antimicrobial resistance profile of isolates revealed that 85.13% isolates were resistant to amoxicillin/ clavulanate; 72.97% to cefpodoxime; 37.83% resistant to ampicillin; 33.10% to ceftazidime; 27.02% to nalidixic acid; 26.35% to cefoxitin; and 23.64% to trimethoprim. However, 97.98% isolates were found susceptible to amikacin and 100% were sensitive to imipenem. The MDR analysis showed that 54.05% of isolates have MAR index ≥0.25 and 8.1% of isolates have MAR index ≥0.5. Further, out of 148 E. coli isolates tested for ESBL production, 30 isolates were found ESBL producer. The study provides data on prevalence of MDR ESBL producing E. coli among livestock in Bihar, India, indicating the risk of transmission of pathogens to humans through horizontal transmission.
Simultaneous detection of equine sperm subpopulations with different phenomes using a novel staining technique
Nowadays, there is an increased demand for liquid and frozen semen of stallion as the breeding registries have allowed artificial inseminations. Therefore, it is important to ensure the quality of stallion semen because it will be used for inseminating a large number of mares. Traditionally, various dyes were being used for assessing individual sperm functional parameters which is laborious, time consuming and require large quantity of samples. Recently, fluorescent dye-based sperm quality assessment techniques are replacing the conventional staining procedures and are proving to be more accurate, reliable and time efficient. In the current study, we developed fluorescent dye based triple staining methods for simultaneous detection of sperm vital parameters i.e viability, acrosome integrity, mitochondrial membrane potential and mitochondrial reactive oxygen species. Cryopreserved semen from 6 stallions were used for the current study. Through the standardized triple staining methods, we identified various sperm subpopulations (seven sub populations in FITC-PNA+MitoSox+Hoechst 33258 and four subpopulations in FITC- PNA+JC-1+Hoechst 33258), all of which cannot be assessed using single or dual staining techniques. We therefore conclude, that triple staining can be useful for simultaneous assessment of important sperm functional parameters of stallion spermatozoa in a cost and time effective manner.
Fluorescent microscopy, Mitochondria, Reactive oxygen species, Spermatozoa, Stallion, Subpopulation
Assessment of antimicrobial potential of green zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) of Bacopa monnieri (L.) against clinical isolates of Escherichia coli
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a major global health issue caused by the overuse of antibiotics across various sectors. It leads to the emergence of resistant microorganisms and could surpass other leading causes of death by 2050. Escherichia coli, commonly used as an indicator organism for monitoring AMR in livestock and food products from animals, naturally inhabits the intestines of warm-blooded animals. This study aims to utilize Bacopa monnieri (L.) extract as a reducing and stabilizing agent for synthesizing ZnONPs through green synthesis and to test their antimicrobial activity against clinical isolates of multidrug-resistant E. coli. The green synthesized ZnONPs were characterized chemically, optically, and morphologically using techniques such as UV-VIS Spectrophotometry, FTIR Spectroscopy, and TEM. Additionally, E. coli isolated from mucous samples was characterized morphologically, biochemically, and molecularly using gram-staining, MacConkey agar differential media test, oxidase test, and PCR based molecular confirmation. Later, antimicrobial assay was performed using MIC technique. The presence of the Surface Plasmon Resonance peak in UV-VIS spectra confirmed the successful synthesis of ZnONPs, while FTIR spectra indicated the presence of functional groups associated with phytochemicals involved in the bioreduction process during ZnONPs formation. TEM analysis revealed the development of nanoparticles with small dimensions. Furthermore, green-synthesized ZnONPs of Bacopa monnieri (L.) demonstrated promising antimicrobial activity, with a MIC of 316.4 mg/mL against MDR E. coli.
Antimicrobial activity, Bacopa monnieri (L.), Escherichia coli. Green synthesis, Zinc oxide nanoparticles
Assessment of intellectual property management and technology commercialization in animal science research
To understand the innovation-based initiatives in the animal science sector, IP&TM Unit of ICAR has analysed IP management, and technology commercialization/licensing activities. The study provided a snapshot on IP portfolios of animal science-based institutes and universities in India and abroad. The IP based initiatives in the form of policy implementation, in-depth awareness and training programmes increased the ICAR’s IP portfolio with 485 Patent applications, 40 Designs, and 87 Trademarks in animal science research in last 20 years. UGC affiliated 38 Animal Science research-based universities also benefitted with these efforts and added 564 patent applications at IPO. World Top-100 veterinary universities patent portfolio was accessed which brought a growing trend IP filing with 35.20% applications before 2006, followed by 14.82% in 2006-2010, 16.52% in 2011-2015, 18.58% in 2016-2020, and 14.88% after 2020, respectively. To transfer the ICAR’s animal science-based innovations through technology commercialization, 473 licensing agreements were signed with 279 public and private organisations and entrepreneurs in which 234 technologies were transferred in between 2007 to 2024. These innovations have reached 25 states and union territories across the country. The continuous efforts of IP&TM Unit and ITMUs under NAIF, 43.96% licensed technologies were protected by filing of patents (34.62%), Trademark (6.41%), Design (2.13%), and Copyrights (0.42%). To institutionalize the agri-business environment in animal science research, seven ABI centres are working in the field of dairy, veterinary, meat, poultry, piggery, sheep, and animal health. These IP filing and technology commercialization trends prove that innovation management and its transfer to the industry is an important pillar of economic growth.
Commercialization/licensing, Design, Innovation, Intellectual Property, Patent, Technology, Trademark, Start-up
Genotypic characterization, toxigenic and spoilage features and multi drug resistance profile of Bacillus cereus from Milk Co-operative societies of Mizoram, India
Bacillus cereus is a food borne pathogenic and food spoiling bacterium commonly found in nature. Emphasizing the recent rise of Mizoram in the small scale dairy farming and alongside probable compromising quality of milk produced in land locked and potable water scarce hilly state, the research investigated the level of contamination, genotypic characteristic, toxigenic gene distribution, spoilage features and multi drug resistance pattern of B. cereus isolated from different of the state. A total of 108 samples of raw, bulk, and retail milk, six samples each, were collected from six Milk Co-operative societies, namely Durtlang, Sihphir, Durtlang-leitan, Thuampui, Phunchawng, and Mualpui. The B. cereus group count exceeded the regulatory limit of 5.7x104cfu/ml in farm raw, bulk, and retail milk, by a significant margin. In PCR assay, using the house keeping panC gene, seven (6.48%) B. cereus strains were confirmed from farm raw milk but the organism could not be detected from bulk and retail milk. All seven B. cereus strains had at least one enterotoxigenic gene with the exception of the haemolytic hblA gene. However, the isolated strains lacked the emetic (ces) gene. The study strains belonged to Clade III with 99.72 percent homology, which are mesogenic and cytotoxic in nature. A proportion of 85.71-100 percent of B. cereus strains exhibited lipolytic and proteolytic spoilage features and none of the strains was psychro-tolerant. Two B. cereus strains with NCBI accession no. OR786090 and OR786089 had highest three enterotoxigenic genes. Upon phylogenetic analysis, the study strains were homologous to the reference strains sourced from milk product, soil and patient’s vomit. Antibiotic sensitivity test upon the organism revealed highest resistance (97.05%) to β-lactam antibiotics and sensitivity (97.05%) to ciprofloxacin and erythromycin. Five B. cereus strains were multi drug resistant, with a distribution to 3-4 classes of antibiotics of different combination. The prevalence of mesophilic enterotoxigenic B. cereus with the count above legal limit, toxigenic and spoilage features and MDR in raw milk from different Milk Co-operative societies of Mizoram, indicated the significance of the organism from food safety and shelf-life point of view.
Bacillus cereus, Genotypic characterization, Toxigenic and Spoilage features, MDR, Milk Co operative societies, Mizoram, Phylogenetic analysis
Evaluating the effects of ozonation pretreatment on ruminal fermentation kinetics and nutritive value of wheat straw using in vitro techniques
Ozone is a powerful oxidizing substance that increases lignin decomposition and improves cellulose degradation. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of ozone pretreatment on in vitro fermentation kinetics and nutritive value of wheat straw in ruminant animals. In this study, wheat straw was pretreated with ozone for 15, 30, 45, and 60 minutes. Gas production volume was recorded at 2, 4, 6, 8, 12, 24, 48, 72 and 96 h of incubation. The digestibility of dry matter (DMD) and organic matter (OMD), metabolisable protein (MP) and metabolisable energy (ME), as well as the relative feed value (RFV) and relative forage quality (RFQ) of the feed were estimated. The results showed that the pretreatment with ozone, significantly reduced fiber components of wheat straw, including neutral detergent fibre (NDF), acid detergent fibre (ADF) and acid detergent lignin (ADL), and increased non-fibrous carbohydrates (NFC), as well as gas production in 12 to 96 hours incubation. Methane production also, significantly increased by ozonolysis pretreatment. Estimated parameters related to nutritive value including digestible energy (DE), metabolisable energy (ME), net energy for lactation (NEl), OMD, DMD, digestible organic matter in dry matter (DOMD), dry matter intake (DMI), RFV and RFQ were significantly increased by ozonation pretreatment. In an overall conclusion, it seems that ozonolysis pretreatment, particularly at the level of 60 minutes ozonation lead to increasing in vitro fermentation kinetics (by 33%) and nutritive value (by 14%) of wheat straw.
Gas production, Lignocellulosic biomass, Nutritive value, Ozonolysis, Wheat straw
Characterization of isolates of Staphylococcus aureus for biofilm formation in goats of Aizawl, Mizoram
Staphylococcus aureus are the inhabitants of intricate biofilms holding multiple layers of bacteria embedded inside its extracellular matrix. The development of biofilms is a substantial factor that contributes to the failure of treatments. It is recommended to employ a combination of phenotypic and genotypic approaches in the study of biofilm formation in S. aureus. Among the 43 S. aureus isolates obtained from goats, both culturally and genotypically characterized, it was shown that 14 isolates (32.55%) exhibited the presence of the biofilm-producing gene icaD, while none of the isolates tested positive for the presence of icaA. However, out of the total 32 isolates, which accounts for approximately 74.41% of the sample, biofilm formation was seen using the crystal violet tube adherence method. The findings of this study demonstrate a notable prevalence of the ica genes among Staphylococcus aureus isolates derived from goats. Furthermore, it is seen that the presence of these genes does not consistently correlate with the in vitro development of biofilm. The capacity to produce biofilms can result in treatment inefficacy, posing a significant risk to public health and animal welfare, while also causing financial losses for farmers.
Effect of altered microclimate on alleviating heat stress in sheep
The present research was conducted to study the effect of fan and foggers on Temperature Humidity Index (THI) and physiological responses in Nellore brown sheep during summer. Twenty ewes of age 3-5 years from sheep unit of Livestock Farm Complex of NTR college of Veterinary Sciences, Gannavaram were divided into 2 groups of each 10 ewes each in a completely randomized design on the basis of body weight. The animals in the group-I were considered as control whereas the animals in the group-II were equipped with fan and foggers for modification of microclimate in the shed. Data on temperature-humidity index and various physiological responses were recorded and analysed statistically. Analysis revealed that, the day average THI was significantly higher in control group (85.67±0.40) as compared to treatment group (83.45±0.30). No significant difference was observed in the morning THI whereas in evening THI significant difference was observed between control (86.84±0.51) and treatment group (83.35±0.36). The average rectal temperature, average respiration rate and average pulse rate was significantly lower in treatment group (102.41±0.04, 41.61±0.81, 87.94±0.52) as compared to control group (103.02±0.05, 57.91±1.29, 95.42±0.55). No significant difference was observed in the morning recorded physiological responses. Therefore, it can be concluded that microclimate modification with the help of foggers and fans is a means to protect the animals from thermal stress under intensive sheep production system during the summer season.
Fans, Foggers, Heat stress, Nellore brown sheep, Physiological responses, Summer, Temperature-humidity index
Use of Cucurma longa and Coriandrum sativum powder as dietary supplements enhances growth performance, expression of growth-related nutritional genes and maintenance in broiler chickens
A 35-day trial was conducted using day-old Cobb 400Y broiler chicks (N=200) to investigate the effects of incorporating turmeric (Curcuma longa) and coriander (Coriandrum sativum) powders, both individually and in combination, on growth performance metrics such as feed intake, body weight gain, feed conversion ratio, performance index, and gene expression of growth-related markers. The chicks were divided into four treatment groups with 50 birds per group, further split into five replicates of 10 birds each: T-0 (control group receiving a standard basal diet), T-1 (0.75% turmeric powder in the basal diet), T-2 (2% coriander powder in the basal diet), and T-3 (0.75% turmeric plus 2% coriander powder in the basal diet). Results showed significant improvements in feed intake, weekly weight gain, feed conversion ratio, and performance index, especially in the T-3 group, with the T-2 and T-1 groups also outperforming the control group. Growth-related genes, including insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and growth hormone receptor (GHR), were expressed at higher levels in the T-3 group, followed by T-2 and T-1. Additionally, significant increases were noted in dry matter, crude protein, and ether extract retention in the groups receiving turmeric and coriander supplements, although calcium and phosphorus retention remained statistically unchanged across all treatment groups compared to the control.
Broiler, Feed Conversion Ratio, Gene expression, GHR gene, Growth Performance IGF-1 gene, Phyto-additives
Historical and cultural perspectives of pigs in ancient India and prospects of natural pig farming in contemporary India
The mythology and ancient history of India reveal that the pig held great cultural and civilizational significance. The intriguing symbolism that a boar represented in our history can be discovered through a cultural revisit through the sculptures and inscriptions. The pig was also portrayed as a symbol of prosperity in ancient Indian agriculture. The domestication of pigs, Sus scrofa domesticus, has deeply impacted human societies across the globe, contributing to food security, agricultural practices, and cultural diversity. The current pig population in India is 9.06 million in comparison to the world population of about 778 million. Out of total pig population, 79.03 percent are indigenous and non-descript in India which make them well suited for natural farming. Current world pork production stand at 112.6 million tons, which has been estimated to grow at the pace of 2.3 percent year to year and expected to rise to 129 million tons by 2031.The world market for organic pork is a niche has been rapidly expanding segment within the global meat industry. At present pork is one of the most traded products in the world that held 136th position in 2022. India exported $3.75M and imported $2.97M pork in the year 2022, making it the 46th among the exporter and112th among importer of pork in the world. There is no doubt that natural and sustainable pig farming, combined with value addition and carbon neutrality, will greatly increase the prospects for Indian pig sector.
Cultural perspective, Export and import, Historical perspective, Natural, Organic pig farming, Value addition
Evaluation of wheat straw, paddy straw and their combination feeding on nutrient utilization in goats
The present experiment aims to investigate the comparison between feeding of wheat straw and paddy straw in combination or as sole roughage. A total of eighteen local non-descript adult male goats (14±02 months age; 28.90±0.66 kg body weight) were selected for the experiment. The animals selected were equally assigned into three groups (n=6) viz.WS, PS and WP, and were fed concentrate mixture and either wheat straw (WS); paddy straw (PS) or a mix of wheat straw and paddy straw (WP) in 60:40 ratio ad libitum as roughage. A feeding trial of 30-days was conducted followed by a metabolism trial of 7-days at the culmination of trial. The results disclosed non-significant difference in terms of average feed intake, mean body weight, metabolic body weight (W0.75), and digestibility of nutrients viz. dry matter (DM), organic matter (OM), crude protein (CP), crude fiber (CF), nitrogen free extract (NFE) and neutral detergent fiber (NDF) among the experiment groups. The balance of nitrogen also revealed non-significant difference among the treatment groups, irrespective of their diets. The feeding cost also showed depreciation when the wheat straw was mixed with paddy straw, which resulted in a saving of about 16.5% of feeding cost, without affecting performance, intake and nutrient digestibility of straw. Thus, it could be concluded that wheat straw and paddy straw show potential to be utilized in combination (60:4) without affecting the nutrient intake, their digestibility and performance of goats.
Goats, Nutrient utilization, Paddy straw, Performance, Wheat straw
Assessment of hygiene practices in the retail poultry meat shops in Bareilly city
Chicken meat is the most preferred meat species, and it accounts for around 50% of overall meat production in our country. Hygiene practices are one of the key factors in retail poultry meat shops that influence the overall quality and acceptability of the meat. A survey was conducted to assess the existing hygiene practices in retail chicken shops by conducting interviews of both consumers visiting the retail shops and the retailers. Results showed 71.67% of retailers agreed about the existing unhygienic retail practices of the shops. Whereas, 61.67, 11.66, 26.66, and 85% of consumers complained about dirty wooden meat-cutting logs, careless and dirty handling of meat and offal, the presence of flies over the meat surfaces, and the wet, unclean, and dirty appearance of live birds. The entire consumer base (100%) agreed about the dirty wipe cloths used by the retailers during slaughtering and cleaning of the carcass, the dirty working surface, and the dirty hands. Poor ventilation facilities and the absence of fly traps were noticed in 66.67% of retail shops. None of the butchers were found using hand gloves, headgear, etc. Intermittent handwashing was found to be practiced only by 44.44% of retailers, but none were found to use any kinds of hand sanitizer, surface sanitizer, or carcass decontaminant. Half of the retailers (50%) did not have dustbins to discard the waste and offal in their shops. The used knives and logs were found to be cleaned only once at the end of the day of work by 83.34% of retailers. The results showed a poor picture of the existing hygiene practices in the retail shops of Bareilly, which need to be intervened.
Animal-based food system in India: An analysis of production, consumption and nutritional implications
This study analyses animal-based food production system, and its consumption and nutrition contribution using data from FAO and National Statistical Office/National Sample Survey Office. Between 2010 and 2021, India saw improved domestic supply of livestock products, with significant growth in exports of marine products and buffalo meat. The value of output from milk, fish, eggs, meat, and other livestock sectors has increased. Poultry, particularly chicken and eggs, drives non-milk-based animal food consumption in India. The total per capita protein supply in India increased from 60.5 g/day to 70.5 g/ day, and in this, the share of animal products increased from 19% to 25%. As of 2021, out of the total daily per capita fat supply of 60.4 g, 36.0% is contributed by animal sources. In case of fat, the share of animal products increased from 31.3% to 36.0%. The study highlights the need for region-specific policies to enhance livestock production and its nutritional contributions.
Food consumption pattern, Food and nutritional security, Livestock growth
Molecular characterization and phylogenetic insight of cattle tick Rhipicephalus microplus from subtropical mountainous terrain of Meghalaya, India
The present study intended to investigate the prevalence, molecular characterization, and phylogenetic perspectives of cattle tick Rhipicephalus microplus from Meghalaya's sub-tropical mountainous terrain. From April 2022 to December 2023, 539 ticks were collected from Holstein-Friesian (62) and Jersey (28) crossbred cattle of about one year age from Umling and Umsning blocks of Ri Bhoi district, Meghalaya. Ticks were identified morphologically, and haemoprotozoan parasites were detected by staining thin blood smears with Giemsa stain. The overall incidence of R. microplus tick in crossbred (Holstein Friesian) cattle was 11.36%. Babesia bigemina infection was detected in merely 9.37% of Umiam's crossbred (Holstein Friesian) cattle. Tick mitochondrial DNA cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COXI) genome amplification by Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) revealed 713bp band size. Sequencing and BLAST analysis of mitochondrial COX1 gene confirmed R. microplus isolate from Umiam, Meghalaya (OR830443.1). Mitochondrial COX1 gene of R. microplus isolates from Pakistan (OP379525.1), Bangladesh (MG459962.1), Myanmar (MG459964.1) and China (OQ547218.1, OR083275.1) shared 99.63 to 100% nucleotide homology with the mitochondrial COX1 gene of R. microplus isolate from Umiam, Meghalaya (OR830443.1). A close genetic relationship of R. microplus isolates from Meghalaya, North East India with the Northern state, Haryana and Southern state, Tamil Nadu and Kerala was observed. This report may be considered to be the first work on the genomic description and phylogenetic insight about R. microplus in cattle from sub-tropical mountainous terrain of Meghalaya, India which will be useful in developing strategies for the management and control of R. microplus tick in the region.
Seasonal histomorphological studies on acidophils of hypophysis cerebri of Gaddi goats in relation to climate change
The present study was conducted to investigate the seasonal histomorphological variations in acidophil cells of the pituitary gland in Gaddi goats, with reference to changing climatic conditions. A total of 35 heads from adult, pluriparous, non-pregnant Gaddi does were procured from local slaughterhouses in the Palampur region of Himachal Pradesh during different seasons. The pituitary gland, located in the interpeduncular fossa, appeared as a light grey, oval or pyriform structure. Histological analysis of the pars distalis adenohypophysis revealed significant seasonal differences (P<0.05) in the relative proportions of acidophils, abundant during the monsoon season. These were further classified into somatotrophs (orangeophils) and lactotrophs (carminophils) using Crossman’s modification of Mallory’s trichome stain, both showing minimal to nill PAS reactivity. The average diameter of somatotrophs (STH-ocytes) was largest in the monsoon (11.4±0.20 µm) and smallest in winter (10.01±0.33 µm). Similarly, lactootrophs (LTH-ocytes) showed maximum diameter during the monsoon (10.6±0.14 µm) and minimum in spring (8.41±0.22 µm). A comparison with the previous seasonal histomorphological studies revealed a shift in cellular dimensions of acidophils over time, indicating that the relative increase in temperature and humidity over the past 20 years may be impacting the migration patterns and pituitary functions in Gaddi goats, with potential effects on their reproductive performance and productivity
Gaddi goat, pituitary gland, climate change, acidophils, seasonal variation, reproduction, histomorphology
Effect of supplementation of spirulina (Arthrospira) and exogenous protease enzyme on growth performance and nutrient retention of broilers
The present study was carried out to assess the effect of dietary supplementation of different levels of spirulina (Arthrospira), a blue-green microalgae with or without exogenous protease enzyme on performance and nutrient retention of broiler chicken. Two hundred and forty commercial broiler chicks were randomly distributed into five dietary treatments with four replicates containing 12 birds each. The dietary treatments were: basal diet prepared as per ICAR (2013) specifications (control: T1), basal diet containing 1% spirulina (T2), basal diet containing 1% spirulina + 0.05% exogenous protease (T3), basal diet containing 2% spirulina (T4) and basal diet containing 2% spirulina+0.05% exogenous protease (T5). Birds were reared under deep litter system for 35 days and fed with pre- starter, starter and finisher diets. Results revealed that the body weight gain, performance index, protein efficiency ratio and feed conversion ratio were increased significantly in T3 groups compared to T1, T2, T4 and T5 groups. Nutrient retention was not affected by supplementing spirulina and exogenous protease in broiler rations. Therefore, it could be concluded that although the supplementation of 1% spirulina and 0.05% exogenous protease improve the growth performance of broiler birds, it should be used with caution under the prescribed limit.
Broilers, Exogenous protease, Nutrient retention, Performance, Spirulina
Occurrence and antimicrobial resistance of non-typhoidal Salmonella isolates belonging to layer breeds and the farm environment
This study assessed the occurrence and antimicrobial resistance of NTS organisms isolated from faecal, caecal and environmental samples of five-layer breeds [Uttara fowl, Kadaknath, Rhode Island Red (RIR), White Leghorn and Australorp] raised in an organized farm. A total of 470 samples were examined using the culture method, followed by biochemical and molecular confirmation of the isolates. All Salmonella strains were tested for their susceptibility to the antibiotics using the disk diffusion method. The overall occurrence of NTS was 4.89% (23/470). RIR showed a highest occurrence (17.58%), followed by Uttara fowl (2.73%) and Kadaknath (1.82%). Water samples had the highest occurrence (10.77%), followed by poultry faeces (6.67%) and caeca (6.0%). On serotyping, a single serovar viz. Salmonella Typhimurium (91.3%) was found to be circulated on the farm. The highest resistance was observed for erythromycin (100%), followed by ampicillin (65.22%) and nalidixic acid (56.52%). About 78.26% of isolates were multidrug-resistant (MDR). The multiple antibiotic resistance (MAR) index ranged from 0.15-0.69. The study confirmed the presence of MDR S. Typhimurium in the breeds and the farm environment, warranting strict control and surveillance.
Antimicrobial susceptibility, Layers, Non-typhoidal Salmonella, Occurrence, Serotyping