This is the html version of the file http://www.cswri.res.in/upload/Sheep%20and%20Rabbit%20Production%20Book%202012.pdf.

Google automatically generates html versions of documents as we crawl the web.

Page 1

Sheep and Rabbit Production

and
Utilization Technologies
 CENTRAL SHEEP AND WOOL RESEARCH INSTITUTE
AVIKANAGAR- 304 501 RAJASTHAN

Page 2

Recommended Citation Contents

Preface
Sheep and Rabbit Production and Utilization Technologies 2013
Introduction
Brief about Institute
Published by Sheep and rabbit technologies
Central Sheep and Wool Research Institute, Avikanagar Superior germplasm of sheep 1
Artificial insemination in sheep with liquid chilled semen 11
Compiled and edited by Indigenous intra-vaginal sponges for oestrus induction and synchronization 13
A.K. Shinde, C.P. Swarnkar and S.M.K. Naqvi Flock health technology for sheep flocks in semi-arid Rajasthan 16
Worm management programme for sheep flocks of Rajasthan 21
Photography by Targeted selective treatment approach for management of haemonchosis in sheep 25
B.L. Sharma FROGIN: Software for forecasting gastrointestinal nemetodiasis in sheep of Rajasthan 29
Pre- weaning lamb feeding for enhancing mutton production 33
Intensive lamb rearing for maximizing mutton production 37
Complete feed blocks for scarcity feeding 41
Restructuring carcasses of cull ewes by nutritional manipulation 44
All rights reserved. Central Sheep and Wool Research Institute
Supplementary feeding of sheep for growth, production and reproduction 45
encourage reproduction and dissemination of material in this Area-specific mineral mixture for sheep and goats 47
information product. Non-commercial uses will be authorized free Establishment of pasture for higher fodder production 49
of charge, upon request. Reproduction for resale or other Broiler rabbit rearing for meat and fur skin 54
Angora rabbit rearing for wool production 56
commercial purposes, including educational purposes, may incur
Utilization of rabbit fur for making fashionable items 58
fees. Applications for permission to reproduce or disseminate Aesthetic and durable carpet from indigenous wool and Its blends 61
material and queries concerning right and licences, should be Angora rabbit Hair – Bharat Merino wool blended shawls 63
addressed by e-mail to cswriavikanagar@yahoo.com or to the Natural colours for wool and specialty hair fibre 65
High quality blankets from indigenous wool 67
Director CSWRI, Avikanagar 304 501.
Development of woollen handicrafts from non- apparel grade wool 70
Value added mutton products 72
Embryo transfer technique in sheep 78
Ram semen freezing techniques 80

CSWRI 2013 Molecular technique for identification of wool and specialty hairs 83
Development of pure pashmina yarn using PVA as carrier fibre 84
 Fermented probiotic feed 86
Application of FecBgenotyping test in marker assisted selection programme in sheep 88

Page 3

Preface

Central Sheep and Wool Research Institute, Avikanagar conducts

research, training and extension on sheep and rabbit production and
utilization. The Institute has completed 51 years and contributed sizably
in the genetic resource improvement, reproduction, feed resource
improvement and utilization, nutrition and feeding, health and meat
and wool products. One of the activities of institute is to assess, refine
and demonstrate the technology/products. During the last five decades a number of technologies and practice
been developed by the institute and applied both on station and on farmer's field. Some of the technologies h
accepted by the farmers and have shown profound beneficial effects while others have shown on research sta
not adopted by the farmers. Field experiences suggested that technology benefits the farmers as long as they
supported by the inputs but their use could not be sustained after the withdrawal of the inputs. Technologies
practices developed in the research institutions are accessed to stakeholder through strong network of Krishi
Kendras (KVK), Agricultural Technology Information Centres (ATIC) and State Agricultural Universities. R
facility is initiated to foster an enabling environment to KVKs for developing partnerships and collaboration
scientists and farmers for sharing appropriate technologies, best practices and innovative ideas among all
stakeholders. This facility will be useful to share our technologies among the stakeholders.

This document is expected to assist stakeholders, entrepreneur, NGO and farmers to learn the technologies a
practices available and their adoption. In addition, it is also useful to government organizations, extension ex
donor agencies to better understand prioritize and support appropriate sheep and rabbit technologies and pra
This compilation is an archive of technologies developed on sheep and rabbit production and utilization in th

I acknowledge and appreciate the efforts of Dr A.K. Shinde and Dr C.P. Swarnkar in bringing out this docum
information on technologies and practices provided by Heads of Division and Section and Heads of Regiona
duly acknowledged. I also compliment the scientists of the institute for developing the technologies and prac
 stakeholders.

Page 4

Patents Filled by the Institute

Location of Main and
Regional Stations of
CSWRI
About CSWRI Indigenous progesterone impre
sponges for estrus synchroniza

Rajasthan
Main campus
CSWRI
Avikanagar (Raj.)
Regional stations
T.N.
ARC, Bikaner (Raj.)
NTRS, Garsa (H.P.)
SRRC, Mannavanur (T.N.)
The Central Sheep and Wool Research Institute is a premier Method to deliver nematophag
Institute of ICAR engaged in research, training and extension Duddingtonia flagrans to shee
activities on sheep and rabbits. It was established in 1962 at control of Haemonchus contor
Malpura in Rajasthan, now campus is known by the name of Area specific mineral-mixture
Avikanagar. The campus is spread over an area of 1510
augmenting reproduction and p
hectare. It has three Regional Research Centres Arid Regional
Production of fermented probi
Campus, Bikaner, Northern Temperate Research Station,
production protocol, fermentat
Garsa and Southern Regional Research Centre, Mannavanur.
drying, storage and uses thereo
At ARC Bikaner research on genetic improvement of Magra and Fermentation vessel for condu
Marwari sheep, grassland improvement, nutrition, sheep diseases production studies (in vitro): fa
and wool processing and quality evaluation is being carried out.
and uses

At NTRS Garsa apart from sheep breeding research, rabbit breeding for wool is being carried out. An elite flock of Low cost, indigenous cradle fo
Bharat Merino is established at the station and made available to farmers for genetic improvement. The attempt of sheep for pregnancy diagnosis
station in dissemination of angora rabbits resulted in establishment large number of Angora rabbit farms in the region. Low cost, indigenous vaginal s
control in buffaloes
An elite flock of Bharat Merino sheep has been established at SRRC Mannavanur station. Bharat Merino sheep are well
in demand in southern states for improving mutton and wool. Broiler rabbits are made available to farmers for
establishment of rabbit farms. The supply of elite germplasm to farmers has resulted in establishment of large number
of broiler rabbits in the southern regions.

Mandate of the Institute

To undertake basic and applied research on all aspects of sheep and rabbit production
To develop, update and standardize meat, fibre and pelt technologies
To impart trainings on sheep and rabbit production and utilization
 To transfer improved technologies on sheep and rabbit production to farmers, rural artisans and development workers
To provide referral and consultancy services on production and products technology of sheep and rabbits

Page 5

drenching and treatment to sheep flocks under TOT and display exhibitions for dissemin
areas. Organized Kishan Mela, Women's Day, Field Day technologies developed in the instit

Awards Received by the Institute
ICAR Award for Team Research for the Outstanding
Research Contribution in Small Ruminant Production
for the Biennium 1997-98 to Drs S.M.K. Naqvi, Anil
Joshi, Rajeev Gulyani, G.K. Das and J.P. Mittal.
ICAR Award for Team Research for the Outstanding
Research Contribution in Genetic Improvement of
Sheep for the Biennium 2003-04 to Drs V. K. Singh, A. L.
Arora, A. K. Mishra, D. Singh, S.M.K. Naqvi, Anil Joshi,
Dr Rajendra Prasad Puruskar for Technical Books in
Hindi in the Field of Agriculture and Allied Sciences for
the year 2005-06 for book on Applied Animal
Husbandry (Cattle, Buffaloes, Sheep, Goats, Pig, Horse
and Camel) to S.C. Dubey, A.K. Shinde and B.N. Singh
Institute Activities on Farmer's Field
Scientists regularly interact with the farmers to solve
their problems, develop awareness about new
technologies and motivate them for the adoption of
Human Resource Development
Scientists of the institute are trained in frontier areas
like biotechnology related to breeding, reproduction
health and rumen manipulation and feed utilization.
Training programme on recent advances in sheep
production and utilization are being organized
regularly for the veterinary officers, scientist and field
officers. Training programme on sheep and rabbit
 C.P. Swarnkar and Satish Kumar. technologies. Institute extends regular vaccination, farming are being organized for the farmers.

Page 6

Superior Germplasm

Malpura: A promising mutton sheep of semiarid region of Rajasthan

Malpura, an indigenous mutton

type sheep breed with coarse wool
texture, is well adapted to harsh
climatic conditions of semiarid
region. It is found in Jaipur, Tonk
and Sawai Madhopur districts of
Rajasthan. Ewes yield sufficient
milk to sustain their neonates.
Superior Malpura rams produced
through intensive selection are
used for distribution to farmers
and other developmental
agencies.

Young rams are ranked and selected on the basis of an index incorporating six-month live
weight, pre-weaning average daily gain and post weaning average daily gain up to 6 month
of age. Through intensive selection and improved management practices, 6 month live
weight improved from 13.84 kg in the year 1974-77 to 25.74 kg in the year 2010-11. High
genetic merit rams are supplied to the farmers for genetic improvement of their animals.
Improvement of 7.63% and 14.92% in 6 month weight and first GFY was recorded by
supply of elite rams in farmer's field. Body weight of >25.0 kg and first GFY of >600 g per
animal at 6 month of age have been achieved in institute farm with overall survivability

Page 7
Chokla: Best carpet wool breed of Rajasthan
Chokla is a fine carpet wool sheep breed and primarily reared for its superior quality carpet
wool and migration ability.
Male lambs are selected on the basis of index worked out combining body weight and wool
yield at 6 month of age. Selected rams (10-12) are used for breeding. Superior rams are sold
to the State Government / Developmental agencies for breed improvement programmes.
Chokla produces wool with average fibre diameter and medullation of around 30 and 30%,
respectively with staple length of > 6.0 cm suitable for all kind of carpet. Since 1992,
through intensive selection and improved management, six month weight of the sheep has
increased significantly from 16.51 kg to 24.83 kg and first 6 monthly GFY increased from
0.918 to 1.438 kg.
(irrespective of age) of > 92 percent.
Over the period, there is significant improvement in the body weight at different ages and
this reflects the effect of selection in the flock. Six month body weight of 24.83 kg, 12 month
body weight of 30.29 kg was achieved with change in concentrate supplementation regime
during the period 2009-2011 to exploit the growth potential of the breed. Overall least
squares means in 2009-11 for first six monthly GFY and Adult annual GFY were 1.438 kg and
2.386 kg, respectively.
Marwari: A robust sheep breed of arid zone
Marwari is one of the important carpet wool producing sheep breed of north western arid
and semiarid region of India. The breed is hardy and well adapted to harsh and erratic
climatic conditions of hot arid region. This breed is considered to be largest in number and
distributed widely in Rajasthan and some parts of Gujarat. The body weight at 6 month
improved by 41.94% i.e. from 15.9 to 22.6 kg since the year 1993. The adult annual GFY was
improved from 1209 g to 1484 g (22.8%) by intensive selection and improved management
practices.
Magra: A lustrous carpet quality wool sheep
Magra sheep is found in its purest form in Bikaner and adjoining areas of Nagaur, Churu and
Jhunjhunu districts of Rajasthan. Magra sheep has been improved for lustrous carpet wool
production. Magra wool is in great demand from carpet industry because luster of carpet
fetches higher price. First six monthly GFY and annual GFY are 0.95 and 2.20 kg,
respectively. Wool quality traits of this breed are most suitable for a standard carpet. Fibre
 diameter (32.0μ), staple length (5.15 cm) and medullation (40-45%) of Magra wool are
most suitable for carpet.

Page 8

Avikalin: Dual type sheep for carpet wool and mutton

A crossbreeding programme for

improving wool production was
initiated at CSWRI, Avikanagar in
1964-65 involving exotic fine wool
breed (Rambouillet) and native
breed (Malpura) of extremely
coarse wool. The half bred have
been pooled and interbred and
the Avikalin sheep strain arising
out of this base having 50% exotic
inheritance, evolved in 1977 with
the objective to produce annual
greasy fleece yield of 2 kg with
fibre diameter around 30 µ and
medullation 30%.

Avikalin sheep produce about 80% more wool compared to native Malpura sheep and
have better growth potential due to exotic inheritance. More than 27.0 kg of body weight
at 6 month of age and 40.0 kg of body weight at 12 month of age at institutional farm was
achieved. First six monthly GFY has been reached to more than one kg. When superior
Avikalin rams were used in farmers' flock there was an increase of about 15-20% in wool

Page 9
Bharat Merino: Fine wool sheep of India
In 1962, Rambouillet sheep from Texas, USA were introduced in Avikanagar for evolving
fine wool sheep through crossbreeding. Native sheep viz. Chokla, Malpura and Jaisalmeri
breed were mated with Rambouillet for production of half breds. Half bred ewes were
backcrossed with Rambouillet rams for production of ¾ Rambouillet. Similarly,
crossbreeding of native Chokla and Nali ewes with Rambouillet and Russian Merino rams
from USSR was done since 1971 in the Institute. The ¾ crosses of both the projects were
merged in1982 and named as Bharat Merino.
During 2008, Bharat Merino sheep were completely shifted to SRRC, Mannavanur to study
their performance in sub-temperate climate of Tamil Nadu and Himachal Pradesh.
Performance of Bharat Merino sheep was satisfactory with regards to production and
reproduction and suitable for apparel wool production. At Mannavanur, six monthly body
weights have crossed 25.0 kg. Adult annual GFY of Bharat Merino has reached > 2.5 kg with
19.38 fibre diameter, < 1 % medullation and 8 cm staple length.
yield besides increase in body weight. Avikalin has been used as an improver breed and
has a great demand particularly in southern part of India to upgrade their local
nondescript sheep.
Prolific Sheep: A promising sheep for mutton production
A cross breeding scheme was initiated in 1997 to introgress the FecB gene from India's most
valuable germplasm Garole sheep of a hot and humid environment into the non-prolific
and large size mutton sheep breed Malpura best adapted to semi-arid tropical environment
to produce the Garole X Malpura (GM) crossbred carrying FecB gene. Later on quarter bred
were produced by back crossing of GM with Malpura (GMM).
Preliminary results in respect of lambing percentage in Garole x Malpura half bred ewes are
encouraging as 44% twin lambing is recorded in this genetic group. In breeding program
th
only FecB carrier (BB or B+) rams are used. The 3/4 crosses were able to produce twins and
also had higher body weight compared to half bred but problem of low milk yield from the
th
dam was still persisting in the 3/4 crosses. Patanwadi sheep was introduced in the GM (M)
to increase the milk yield of dams. In this process, GM(M) animals were crossed with
Patanwadi and 3 breed crosses were produced which resulted in higher prolificacy, higher
birth weight along with more milk yield of dam to feed larger lamb crop per ewe.
The magnitude of multiple births
has reached to 40% in GMM. The
litter size at birth ranged from
1.07 to 1.42 in GMM. Least
squares means for body weights
at birth, three, six and twelve

Page 10
Sirohi: Dual purpose hardy goat breed of Rajasthan
The unit of AICRP on Goats at Avikanagar was established in 1976. Bucks used for selective
st
breeding purpose were earlier selected based on 9 month weight and dam's 1 lactation
150 days milk yield.
Sirohi is the majestic breed of dual purpose goat, suitable for Rajasthan. Selective breeding
along with intensive selection of Sirohi goat is running at Avikanagar since 1976. Intensive
selection and improved management, improved twelve month weight of the Sirohi goat
from 21.53 to 26.43 kg, similarly total milk yield increased from 74.25 to 107.77 kg.
month were 2.54, 13.68, 20.00
and 26.15 kg, respectively in
GMM crosses.
Performance of Sirohi breed at farm for the year 2009-10 with regards to body weight at
birth, 3, 9 and 12 months of age were 3.22, 12.10, 23.98 and 26.43 kg, respectively. The
total milk yield in the does kidded averaged, 107.77 kg and average total lactation length
was 174.56 days.
Adoption of Superior Germplasm by the Farmers
There is always a great demand of Malpura rams among the farmers. Every year superior
rams (~50) are being sold to local farmers for improvement in their flocks with performance
recording in the field. Comparison between progenies born out of farmers' rams and
superior rams distributed from institutional flocks have shown a considerable
improvement in farmers' flocks.
Since 1992, a total of 300 Chokla rams are sold / distributed to the farmers or to the
Government of Rajasthan for breed improvement programme. Bharat Merino having 75%
exotic inheritance has been used by farmers to increase mutton production where
sufficient feed and fodder is available, particularly in Kolar district of Karnataka state where
they are using it as improver breed.
Once sizeable population of prolific sheep will be established with traits of higher
prolificacy, more body weight and more milk per dam, the improved and proven sheep will
be delivered at the farmers' door step to enhance economic returns of farmer and
livelihood security. Sirohi goat is not only distributed in Rajasthan but also all over India
even in the southern part for breed improvement programme due to its sustainability in all
 type of environment. A total of 616 animals were sold to the farmers during last five years.

Page 11

Sheep genetic resource available in institute, its Artificial Insemination in Sheep with
regional stations and network project centres
Breed Utility Available at Liquid Chilled Semen
Malpura Mutton and medium CSWRI
type wool Avikanagar, Rajasthan
Artificial insemination (AI) technique is used in animal breeding programme to multiply
elite sheep in a flock at faster rate, reduce the requirement of number of rams and avoid the
Avikalin Carpet wool & mutton
possibilities of transmitting contagious diseases within the flock. Advances made in the
Kendrapada Prolific sheep
development of new semen diluents and insemination procedures opened a new avenue
Garole Prolific sheep
for achieving accelerated genetic gain in sheep through AI.
Patanwadi Mutton and milk
Chokla Carpet wool ARC (CSWRI), Bikaner, Rajasthan
Semen from adult donor rams is
Magra Carpet wool
collected using artificial vagina.
Marwari Carpet wool
The institute has developed Egg
Bharat Merino Fine wool and mutton SRRC, (CSWRI), Mannavanur, Tamil Nadu
yolk McIllvaine glucose (EYMG)
Gaddi Synthetic Fine wool and mutton NTRS, (CSWRI), Gasra, Kullu, HP
diluent for AI of sheep in farm and
Muzaffarnagari Mutton and coarse wool CIRG, Makhdoom, UP field using chilled liquid semen.
Deccani Mutton and coarse wool MPKV Ejaculates of thick consistency,
Rahuri Ahmednagar, Maharashtra
rapid wave motion, having more
Nellore Mutton Livestock Research Station, Sri Venkateswara
>80% motility and intense
Veterinary University, Palamner, Chittoor, AP
movement of motile spermatozoa
Madras Red Mutton Livestock Research Station Campus,
are diluted at the rate of 1:1 with
Kattupakkam, Kancheepuram, Chennai, TN
EYMG diluents at 30°C in a water bath. Ewes exhibiting estrus in the morning (early estrus)
Ganjam Mutton Veterinary College, OUAT, Bhubaneswar,
Odisha
and evening (mid estrus) of the same day are brought at the common place for AI.

Chottanagpuri Mutton Birsa Agricultural University,Kanke, Ranchi,

Ewe is properly held with its forelegs on the ground and hind legs up at an inclined angle
Jharkhand
facing the sunlight with the aid of a helper. The lubricated glass speculum is inserted gently
Mecheri Mutton Mecheri Sheep Research Station Pottaneri
Mecheri, Salem TANUVAS, TN and the cervix is visualised through the sunlight entering the glass speculum. If the sunlight

Sonadi Mutton LRS, College of Veterinary Science, Navania,

is not adequate to locate the cervix then a flashlight is used.
 Vallabhnagar Rajasthan Diluted semen (0.1 ml) is pipette from the semen shipper and the pipette is held firmly in
Mandya Mutton and coarse wool Livestock Research and Information Centre
(Sheep), Nagamangala, Mandya, KVAFSU, the right hand. The semen is deposited through pipette on the mouth of the cervix and the
Karnataka pipette and glass speculum are withdrawn gently from the vagina. Heat detection is

10

Page 12

Indigenous Intra-Vaginal Sponges for

continued in inseminated ewes for 2 cycles. Ewes not returning to estrus are marked as
conceived. The estimated cost of AI in sheep is Rs. 5 per AI including the cost of chemicals
and glassware.
Salient Findings
Oestrus Induction and Synchronization
One of the major applications of oestrus synchronization in livestock production is to
facilitate artificial insemination (AI) in ewes. Synchronization of oestrus has made the AI
much more attractive to commercial sheep farms because majority of sheep can be
inseminated within two to three days and lambs can be raised as per demand in the market.
It permits the flock management easy and schedule sheep handing and breeding and reduces

Around 1300 sheep in farmer's flocks were artificially inseminated by Institute with overall the time consumed in heat detection. Further, it helps in scheduling the breeding and lambing
success rate of 63.38%. to overcome the seasonal variation and can be simulated as per the forage availability.

Adoption by the Farmers Technology Details

The adoption rate of AI by farmers is negligible. However, adoption of AI using semen of Progesterone impregnated intra-vaginal sponges for oestrus induction and synchronization
superior rams can provide a viable option to resource poor underprivileged farmers for in sheep and goats have been developed indigenously at CSWRI, Avikanagar. One kit
uplifting their socio-economic status by augmenting production of low producing sheep
breeds in their flocks. Non-availability of elite rams and need of heat detection are the
major constraints in adoption of AI by the farmers.

Other constraints include decrease in fertility after 24 h of liquid semen preservation;

involvement of some cost in employment of skilled labour, equipments, drugs, hormones,
purchase of semen and lack of awareness about benefits of AI. Involvement of state animal
husbandry departments, state agricultural universities, non-government organizations
and developmental agencies is required to motivate the sheep farmers in terms of its
success for enhancing the adoption rate of this technology. The use of cost-effective
oestrus synchronization device in the form of vaginal sponges has given the scope for taking
 up large-scale fixed time AI programme without detecting oestrus. Since grazing land is
shrinking, fat lamb production for mutton may be an important criterion to boost the total
mutton production. The application of fixed time AI with liquid semen can be useful for
augmenting productivity of native sheep by use of elite rams.

12

Page 13

containing 50 sponges, 1 speculum and 1 plunger is costing Rs. 460. The selected animals
are prepared for oestrus synchronization.
Insertion of sponges: The progesterone-impregnated sponge is loaded in a vaginal
speculum, a glass tube with both the ends open. The sponge is loaded in speculum through
anterior end and thread of sponge taken out from distal end. Push the sponge through the
speculum by using plunger, a glass rod, until it reaches the cervix. Retain the plunger and
withdraw the speculum 2 to 3 cm to expel the sponge out of the speculum. Remove the
instruments, speculum and plunger.
Management of ewes: After the insertion of vaginal sponge the ewes are free to move
around for grazing, feeding and other routine management practices. But special care must
be taken of the treated ewes until the vaginal sponges are not removed.
Removal of sponges: The sponges are kept in situ for 12 days. After 12 days, the sponges are
taken out from vagina of ewes carefully. While removing the sponge the thread should not
break and sponge should come out by pulling the thread.
Development and application of intra vaginal sponges: An intra muscular injection of 200
IU of Pregnant Mare Serum Gonadotrophin (PMSG) is administered at the time of sponge
removal. In general, PMSG is used when oestrus is induced among anoestrus ewes and ewe
lambs. In cycling ewes PMSG is not required.
Salient Findings
So far 708 sheep in farmer flocks were inserted sponges and out of that 629 sheep
exhibited oestrus with an overall success rate of 88.84%.
Adoption by the Farmers
This technology is already been successfully used
in majority of sheep rearing states. Irrespective
of agro-ecosystem the technology has yielded
better results wherever it is used. Hence the
technology has potential to be disseminated to
all states of India. Infertility problem is the major
cause of concern for reduced reproductive
efficiency. Hence adopting this particular technology one can directly addresses the
infertility problem pertaining to sheep. This will intern ensure better return in terms of net
profit to the farmers and thereby the economy as a whole. Moreover, it requires very
minimal support in terms of infrastructure. A single room with sponge foam, thread and
progesterone drug is sufficient for the production of sponges. Problems associated in
adoption of technology are a) poor awareness among farmers b) low level of education c)
trained manpower to demonstrate the technique in the farmers' flock d) migratory sheep
 flocks. Efforts should be made by all state government through their animal husbandry
department (AHD) for dissemination of the technology. All AHD should encourage farmers
Detection of oestrus: Detection of oestrus is done by apron ram at an interval of 6 h for 72 h
to use this technology through extension programmes and proper training should be
commencing from 24 h of sponge withdrawal. Ram should possess high vigour and libido.
imparted to farmers.

14

Page 14

Flock Health Technology for Sheep

Flocks in Semi-arid Rajasthan
predisposes other diseases and
Sheep diseases are an ever present constraint on the production efficiency of animal and hamper the efforts for genetic
have obvious and profound effects or remain sub-clinical without obvious effect. The selection. Among non-specific entities,
common diseases require due attention in sheep are infectious: Sheep pox, PPR, different kinds of pneumonia cause
bluetongue, FMD, enterotoxaemia, JD, pasteurellosis, foot rot, anthrax, contagious maximum morbidity and mortality
ecthyma, parasitic gastroenteritis, scabies, coccidiosis, nasal myiasis, ectoparasitism and losses in flocks. Moderate to severe
non-infectious: Pneumonia, exposure and inanition syndrome, enteritis, tympany, pneumonia reduces carcass weight on
anaemia, vitamin and mineral deficiencies, hyperhermia, debility, toxaemia, septicaemia, an average by 0.45 kg /lamb. In general,
hepatitis, toxic and metabolic diseases. during the perinatal period animals die
from adaptation failure, hypothermia,
The incidence of diseases has negative impact on production of the sheep. According to field
exposure - inanition syndrome and
observation about 20% of production losses are due to diseases and death. In the country, the
septicaemia consequent upon
cases of morbidity and mortality in sheep flocks range 35- 50 and 10-15%, respectively. The
inadequate colostrum intake.
losses will be more if cases of abortion and still birth and reduction in milk, meat and fibre yield
and expenses incurred on treatment during the disease period are included. Technology Details

In sheep pox, although the mortality rate is often < 10% but causes fatality rates of nearly
Based on epidemiology of sheep
100% in young animals. In India, the morbidity and mortality due to Bluetongue disease
diseases a calendar of prophylaxis has
range 29.4-77.0 and 25.0-45.5%, respectively. PPR occurs in epizootic form with morbidity
been developed which includes timely
of 27-84% and mortality between 18-60%. The incidence of JD is > 15.0% in sheep, mainly in
vaccination, drenching, dipping and
farm flocks.
tactical health care. The commonly
used prophylactic measures are as
In small ruminant the incidence of abortion due to Chlamydiosis, Brucellosis, Listeriosis,
under:
Leptospirosis and Toxoplasmosis range 7.7-27.3, 2.2-7.9, 3.33-33.0, 14.3-15.2 and 6.6-
 11.5%, respectively. Parasitic infections, particularly, internal parasitism is one of the major
disease/syndrome of pastoral ruminants. Major consequences includes increased
mortality and reduction in live weight gain (35-40%), wool yield (35-40%) and quality,
fertility and milk yield (10-15%), rejection of meat or organs for human consumption,

16

Page 15

Event Frequency and time

Adult Newborn

ET vaccination Twice a year (June, December) At 2.5 month of age (with booster), followed by
every six month with adult
Sheep pox Once a year (December) At 3 month of age, followed by annual vaccination
vaccination with adult

PPR vaccination Once in 3 years At 3.5 month of age

(December- January)

FMD vaccination Need based in field flocks (February)

Deworming Strategic drench during mid-monsoon (Late Aug – early Sept) with rotation of
anthelmintic type

Dipping Once a year, 15-21 days after March shearing

Foot bath During monsoon, 3-4 times at weekly interval with copper sulphate

The application of above mentioned practices cost around Rs. 37-40 / sheep / year
(Rs. 12-15 on prophylactics and Rs. 25 on curative treatments).

Salient Findings

Prior to adoption of prophylactic health calendar, the average mortality in farmer's flocks of
Rajasthan was 20.4% (1975-76). However, regular health inputs from 1977 to 1985 resulted
in reduction of mortality to 10.88%. Based on study, planned flock health programme was
 developed and implemented from 1986 resulted in decline of mortality to around 5.0%.

The reductions of mortality from 1975-76 to 2011-12 showed clear impact of flock health
approach. A sheep cost Rs.1500- 2000 and if a farmer is maintaining 100 sheep then losses
due to annual mortality at initial stages (without adopting the prophylactic measures)

18

Page 16

Worm Management Programme for

Sheep Flocks of Rajasthan
comes to 20 sheep i.e. Rs. 35000 per year. After initial health inputs the losses came down Helminthic infections are
to 11 sheep i.e. Rs.19250 per year and further reduced after the application of flock health considered as an important cause
programme to 5 -7% i.e. Rs.8750 – 12250. Hence, it was observed that investment of Rs. 37- of reduced productivity in sheep .
40 per sheep per year, farmer can save Rs.19000 per year. Simultaneously, improve wool, The control of gastrointestinal
body weights, lambing and survival of animals etc. nematodes (GIN) in sheep is
necessary to prevent ill health and
Adoption by the Farmers improve productivity. The majority
of farmers are reliant solely on
The technology was implemented in farmer's flocks through ORP as well as TOT
benzimidazole and levamisole.
programme. Each year >100 farmers having >8000 sheep adopted the health calendar and
The sheep breeders of Rajasthan
save the mortality losses due to diseases and benefited from improvement in wool yield,
drench their animals usually 2-3
body weights, lambing and survival of animals etc. Now farmers are following the health times in a year mostly coinciding with wool shearing. This practice of worm control is not
calendar at their own and making periodical consultation in the institute or TOT outlets based on sound epidemiological knowledge which results in failure of worm control
itself indicates faith in prophylactic and curative animal health technologies. programme, emergence of anthelmintic resistance strains of parasites and an increase in
cost of worm control.
A: Before start of programme
B: During development of programme
Technology Details
C: After implementation of technology

Before 1984, 6 drenches / year were practiced in sheep flocks maintained by farmers in
Rajasthan. The cost of drench per sheep per year was approximately Rs. 24.00 with
mortality rate of 0.40% in flock due to GIN. Later, in 1984 the programme was rationalized
and the drenching schedule was reduced to 4 drenches / annum.
 The cost of drenching per sheep / year came down to Rs. l6.00 with mortality rate of 0.45%
due to worms. After that detailed studies were conducted at the institute on epidemiology
and anthelmintic resistance in gastrointestinal nematodes of sheep to formulate a worm
control strategy for sheep flocks of Rajasthan. The study revealed that:
Annual mortality rate in field flocks of semi-arid Rajasthan

20

Page 17

Haemonchus contortus is responsible for production and mortality losses and clinical
form of disease is seen during August to November
Pre-parasitic stages on pasture are translated from late June to early December
There is no typical peri parturient rise in faecal egg count

There is wide prevalence of benzimidazole and levamisole resistant strains ofH. contortus

Based on above facts, a regional worm management programme consisted of single

strategic drench during rainy season (mid to late monsoon) and one tactical drench post
monsoon as per need (based on faecal examination) was devised. The main features of
technology includes epidemiology based strategic deworming programme, reduced
frequency of anthelmintic drench, less chances for emergence of anthelmintic resistant
worms and economized worm management.

Month of drenching Type of anthelmintics Remark

 Late August / Early Narrow spectrum anthelmintic (closantel, Strategic drench
September rafoxanide / levamisole group)

Late October/ Early Narrow spectrum anthelmintic (closantel, Tactical drench (need based) Modified worm management programme for sheep flocks of Rajasthan
November rafoxanide / levamisole group) based on faecal examination

22

Page 18

Targeted Selective Treatment Approach

for Management of Haemonchosis in Sheep
Salient Findings Gastrointestinal (GI) parasitism is the major disease responsible for economic losses in sheep.
Among GI nematodes, Haemonchus contortus is predominant and economically important
During the period from May 2004 to March 2012, a total of 16476 sheep were monitored nematode causing anaemia and death with substantial production losses. Based on sheep
for productive performance and evaluated for gastrointestinal strongyles by examining population (Census 2003), the annual losses due to GIN alone have been estimated to the tune
49482 faecal samples. The monthly incidence and intensity of strongyle nematodes of Rs. 1191.708 million in sheep flocks of Rajasthan. The sustainability of anthelmintic
remained almost similar among flocks given either strategic (one drench / annum) or treatment is threatened by the emergence of drug resistance in parasite.
conventional (3 drenches / annum) anthelmintic treatment. The epidemiological profile
The need to conserve the efficacy
exhibited higher magnitude of infection only during monsoon (July-October). The
of currently available drugs and
reduction in anthelmintic frequency in strategic scheme as against conventional scheme
any novel drug to be discovered in
had no adverse effect on flock performance and yields better financial return to farmers.
future must be balanced with the
The result reflected the value and success of single drench schedule for the effective
ability to maintain high levels of
management of gastrointestinal nematodes in sheep flocks of Rajasthan.
animal production and welfare.
One approach which has been the
The programme saved Rs. 12 / sheep / annum compared to conventional drench schedule
focus based on recent research
without compromising the flock productivity. Comparative evaluation of conventional and
and debate is to maintain a
modified technology in sheep naturally infected with GIN at farmer level yielded a net gain
parasite population in refugia
of Rs. 100.57 /sheep/year as direct benefit on application of modified technology.
(unexposed to drug), in order to
Adoption by the Farmers maintain both phenotypic and
genotypic susceptibility. The
The technology is implemented in field through field Veterinarians and Livestock occurrence of over-dispersion
Assistants. Regular consultancy to farmers increased awareness among farmers for faecal phenomenon in faecal egg counts, within flock variation and rising importance of refugia in
 examination in order to decide anthelmintic treatment and training to farmers through management of anthelmintic resistance led to evolution of techniques of targeted selective
ATMA widen its adaptation. The full acceptance of technology will pave the path for treatment (TST) of the most affected and / or the most anaemic animals to prevent / delay
implementation of TST approach in field flocks. the development of drug resistance.

Following successful implementation of single anthelmintic drench / annum for worm

management in sheep flocks, a mechanism is further developed to increase quantum of

24

Page 19

refugia and decrease the selection pressure for anthelmintic resistance through harvesting
the benefits of over-dispersion in faecal egg count, targeted selective technique is
developed for management of haemonchosis in sheep.

Technology Details

It is a simple system to categorize the anaemic status of sheep based on the conjunctiva
mucosa colours on a scale from 1 (red) to 5 (white). Based on photographs, intensity of
infection and haematocrit value a colour chart (consisting of 5 different grades of colour)
was prepared and applied for effectiveness in adult sheep from July, 2008.

Sheep were categorized into five scales as 1: red (non-anaemic), 2: red-pink (non-anaemic),
3: pink (mild anaemic), 4: pink-white (anaemic) and 5: white (severe anaemic) at monthly
interval. The animals falling in category 4 and 5 were considered as anaemic and were
recommended for anthelmintic treatment particularly in wormy season.

Salient Findings

The relatively increase in proportion of visually anaemic sheep was started after mid
monsoon and reached to peak level at the end of monsoon. The study demonstrated
application feasibility of eye colour chart by different evaluator.

The estimated comparative performance of TST and en-mass targeted treatment exhibited
 that the frequency of anthelmintic treatment under TST was 29.31% in 2008-09 which
reduced to 23.99% in 2009-10, 15.50% in 2010-11 and to 10.88% in 2011-12 with an
average of 19.92±4.14% per annum. No adverse effect of TST was observed on flock
performance. The cost of anthelmintic intervention in flock was only 10% of that incurred
with targeted treatment particularly due to reduced use of anthelmintics.

26

Page 20

FROGIN: Software for Forecasting Gastrointestinal

Economic evaluation of different worm management schemes at farm level indicated that
in sheep naturally infected with targeted treatment approach (1 drench / yr), there was a
net gain of Rs. 176.07 /sheep/yr as compared to conventional treatment approach (>3
drench / yr). Compared to targeted treatment approach, a net gain of Rs. 155.76 / sheep/yr
was realized with TST.
Comparative performance for targeted treatment (TT) and TST approaches
for worm control in sheep farm
Nemetodiasis in Sheep of Rajasthan
The use of anthelmintics in sheep was in jeopardized manner and did not base on sound
epidemiological evidences. In order to tackle the rising problem of anthelmintic resistance
in parasites, it was felt to develop a mechanism by which use of anthelmintics in sheep
could be rationalised. A computer based programme was developed that simulates life
cycle of Haemonchus contortus in sheep and on pasture for different agro-climatic
conditions of Rajasthan. The life cycle of H. contortus was taken into consideration for
formulating the prototype of modelling for H. contortus forecasting in sheep. The model

TT TST was developed to predict the intensity of H. contortusin sheep.

Total number of sheep 5263 1081
Lambing (%) 65.08 79.78 Technology Details
Morbidity (%) 34.52 20.48
Mortality (%) 7.94 6.63 Mathematical model (regression analysis) based on development and mortality rate /
Disposal (%) 16.14 9.19 establishment rate, climatic data, development and survival of larvae on pasture, fecundity
Annual GFY(kg / head) 1.265 1.877
of parasite, stocking rate on pasture and migratory behaviour of larvae was used to predict
No. of anthelmintic doses used / yr 8466 165
Cost of anthelmintic intervention (Rs) 50796.0 990.0 the level of pasture contamination and subsequent possible intensity of infection in sheep.
Cost of anthelmintic / annum (Rs) 9.65/ head 0.92/ head Monthly total rainfall, average maximum and minimum temperature and relative humidity
were used to determine the period in which worm eggs from faeces reach the infective
Adoption by Organized Farms
larval stage and migrate on to the herbage.
So far, the technology is successfully implemented in sheep flocks managed at organized
The magnitude of infective larval population on the pasture was assessed by considering
sheep farms (Sheep Breeding Farm, Fatehpur and Arid Region Campus, Bikaner of CSWRI)
 in Rajasthan. The acceptance of TST strategies by producers and their implementation may the mortality rate during the development of eggs to infective larvae, the mortality rate of

require a high level of input and education to the farming community. It is crucial that infective larvae which have migrated on grass blades, the infection rate in animal in which

practitioners / farmers and advisors are made aware not only of the cost benefits, and adult worms have established after ingestion of L , the mortality rate of adult worms and
3

potential disadvantages, accruing from a TST approach but also those associated with the egg production rate of adult female worms.
extreme multi-drug resistance.

28

Page 21

The steps involved in developing model are as follows: Salient Findings

Interaction between faecal egg count and climate

For this purpose farm and field flocks in different zones were taken and monitored for entire
Development rates year with anthelmintic intervention as per modified worm management programme (once
Larval survival rate a year during mid-late monsoon).

Larval migration (vertical) rate on grass blade

On comparison it was observed that while considering a variation of 500 epg in FEC as non-
Stocking rate / density
significant, the FROGIN based forecast about intensity of infection was > 80% in agreement
Seasonal herbage availability
in all the location and management system except in arid farm where agreement was 66%.
DM consump tion rate The low agreement in arid farm could be due to creation of artificial environment suitable
Faecal output rate for worm propagation by practicing the irrigation means to cultivate the fodder.
Establishment of adult worms in sheep
Fecundity rate of adult worm k
c
8000

7000
flo
Development of prototype of forecasting forH. contortusin sheep in6000 P re dicte d
)
g 5000
p O bse rve d
(e
4000
C
E
F 3000
e
g
ra2000
e
Environment
Environment Host
Host v
A 1000
0
Comparative trends between Apr_04 M a r_07

Semi-arid Farm
FROGIN based predicted and
Climatic observations, Stocking density, Intensity of observed FEC in sheep flocks 4000

Exogenous stages of parasite, infection, Consumption of at farms k 3500

c Predicted

flo3000 Observed
 Fodder availability, herbage, Faecal output rate, in
) 2500
Grass height and density Pasture contamination rate g
p
MODELING (e2000
C
E
F 1500
e
g 1000
Parasite ra
e
v
A 500
0
Apr_04 Mar_07

Fecundity, Egg hatching, Larval translation rate Arid Farm

30

Page 22

Pre- weaning Lamb Feeding for Enhancing

Adoption by Research Organization/Organized Farms
FROGIN will help to choose the number and time of drug treatments to get good worm
control and to reduce the use of chemicals. This programme is capable of precisely
forecasting the magnitude of parasitism for 60 days in advance and is extremely useful in
decision making to organize deworming for sheep. Further, the programme is capable of
shifting the scheduled drench in face of changing weather pattern and management
modifications made by farmer.
Mutton Production
The demand of mutton is increasing rapidly due to increase in economic status, demand for
quality meat based products, floating population of mega and metropolis and growing
trend of eating in restaurants and hotels. There is sizable improvement in average daily
weight gain and feed efficiency in lambs through nutritional manipulation. In the field
condition, lambs under prevailing feeding practices attain body weights of 8-10 kg at 3
month whereas native lambs are capable of achieving 16-17 kg body weight at about 3
month of age under intensive feeding In lamb production, major objective is to harness
maximum growth during pre-weaning stage by improved feeding practices.

Technology Details

Attainment of early weaning weight gives an impetus to next phase (post-weaning) growth.
k 1600
c

flo 1400
P re dicte d There is considerable interest in early weaning of lambs because it will enable early marketing
O bse rve d
in 1200
)
g
p 1000
of lambs, out-of-season lambing, multiple lamb crops per year. For higher pre weaning gains
(e
C 800
E
lambs should receive creep feed from the time they are old enough to eat solid feed (1-2
F 600
.
v
A 400
weeks of age). In additions to proper and timely colostrums feeding of newly born lambs and
200
multiple births, following approaches for higher pre weaning gains may be followed:
0
Apr_04 M a r_07
Comparative trends between
Semi- arid Field
• Feeding of milk replacer
FROGIN based predicted and
2500 observed FEC in sheep flocks •
Feeding of creep mixture and good quality legume hay
s
k
c
Pre dicted at field
 flo2000 •
in
)
Observed Incorporation of pro- and pre-biotics in lamb ration
g 1500
p
(e
C
E
F
1000 Colostrum feeding
.
v
A 500

0
In addition to immuneglobulins, colostrum consists of nutrients which fuel heat production
Apr_04 Mar_07

and prevent hypothermia in new born lambs. It also helps to promote gut growth and
Arid Field

32

Page 23

differentiation especially during the first 24-48 h after birth, thus helping to establish the
Cafeteria feeding of concentrate and roughage
intestinal route as the sole source of nutrients. Lamb born in open and in winter need 200-
220 ml of colostrum / kg of body whereas those born in housed conditions require about Free choice feeding of concentrate and good quality roughage gave encouraging results. A
160-180 ml. In case of no or poor yield of colostrums, frozen colostrums may be used. Goat good concentrate should contain 16-20% crude protein, 72-75% total digestible nutrients
colostrum is a good substitute, however cow colostrum has 20-40% less nutrients than and calcium to phosphorus in 2:1. In addition to concentrate good quality roughage is also
ewe's colostrum. If cow colostrums used, one third more volume may be fed. important. The choice of roughage pre-weaner lambs are cowpea hay, pala leaves, khejri
leaves, guar hay etc.
Feeding of milk replacer
Feeding high energy rations
Lamb growth and development is
Lambs need high energy ration to assure fast growth. Higher level of concentrate produces
dependent upon the ewe's milk yield
fatter carcasses than those reared on forages up to finishing whereas addition of fat prevent
during first week of life. Lambs start
ruminal acidosis, facilitate absorption of lipo soluble nutrients and modify meat according
nibbling on feeds within a few days after
to consumer demand. Milk suckling twice daily up to 3 month of age and creep ration and
birth, but this will not sufficient for
legume hay adlib should be provided during 0-3 month of age in lambs.
harnessing higher growth. Therefore,
after 15 days of age, feeding of milk Parameters Cost (Rs)

substitute is a convenient way of 4 week old weight (kg) 7.00 980.00

delivering nutrients to the lamb. Weaning weight (kg) 17.8 -

Creep ration consumed (g/day) @ Rs 15.64/kg 190 178.30
 Milk replacer consists of 22-24% crude Hay consumed (g/day) @ Rs 5.00/kg 35.7 10.70
protein, 30-32% crude fat, 22-25% Green fodder consumed (g/day) Rs 550/kg 139.9 46.20
lactose and 5-10% minerals and Total feed consumed (g/day) 362.4 -
formulated in a powder form. It is mixed Total body weight gain (kg) 10.8 -
with warm water at the time of feeding Feed efficiency (Feed: Gain) 2.07 -

and fed at the rate of 10% of lamb's body weight in 3-4 feedings per day. Total feed cost (Rs) - 235.20

34

Page 24

Intensive Lamb Rearing for Maximizing

Mutton Production
After green revolution in wheat and rice, white revolution in milk, yellow revolution in oil
seeds and the blue revolution in fisheries, it is now turn of red revolution in meat
production. There is sizable improvement in average daily weight gain and feed efficiency in
lambs through nutritional manipulation. In the field condition, lambs under prevailing
feeding practices attain body weights of 16-18 kg at 6 months of age whereas native lambs
are capable of achieving 33 kg body weight at about 6 month of age under intensive feeding
with a feed conversion ratio of 3.5-4.0. In fattening lamb production, major objective is to
harness maximum growth with better feed efficiency and desirable meat yield and quality
by improved feeding practices.

Some of the approaches for harnessing higher finisher weight from growing lambs are:
□ Incorporating rumen by pass fat in lamb ration

□ Supplementing buffer in high concentrate feeding

□ Defaunation of growing lambs
□ Incorporating probiotics

Feeding high energy rations with rumen

Adoption by the Farmers protected fat
 Depending on the resources, lamb rearing units are coming up in sheep producing zones of Inclusion of by-pass fat provide high energy to growing
the country. The farmers are contributing their surplus male lambs in the venture. These finisher lambs without disturbing rumen
lambs are maintained under intensive feeding for three months followed by shearing and environment The rumen by pass fat which are
disposal. The concentrate mixture is prepared using locally available energy and protein available in the market are very costly therefore a
supplements and efforts are made to use cheapest sources. The finisher lambs are disposed simple method was developed in our laboratory
off to the organized business houses having modem facility of abattoir cum meat where industrial grade oil are converted into calcium
processing plants on live weight basis. soap of fatty acids.

36

Page 25

mixture supplementation in
The final product consists of 63 % fat and 37 % mineral matter and its cost varies between Rs
post weaning phase has been
50-60/kg. It is recommended to include bypass fat at 4% level for better finishing weight
developed for attaining
(33-35 kg) at 6 mo of age.
finishing weight of 33 kg at 6
Rumen buffers month of age in Malpura
lambs.
Finishing lambs when fed high grain ration their rumen pH drops and lambs develop
ruminal acidosis. Rumen buffers stabilize the rumen pH and control the problem of rumen Economics of mutton
acidosis and improve animal performance. Sodium bicarbonate acts as very good buffer production
and when supplemented @ 1.5 % of total ration, it improved weight gain and feed
In lamb production, capital
efficiency.
investment is low but it has high
Feeding of probiotics return,employment
opportunity with local feed and fodder resources. The details calculation is furnished below :
Lambs after weaning from their dams come under stress and as a result face the digestive
disturbances as well as other health problems. During this time probiotic culture consisting
Parameters Cost (Rs)
of beneficial microbes help improving the digestive disturbances, strengthen the immune
3 month w (kg) 17.8 -
system and compete/ control the pathogenic infection. Slaughter wt (kg) (6 month) 33.0 -
Daily concentrate feed consumed 568.6 800.40
The liquid culture of S. cerevisiae at the rate of 1 ml/kg BW is recommended. User-friendly
(g) @ Rs 15.64/kg
probiotic feed mixture is developed involving ingredient of concentrate mixture, e.g. wheat
 bran that is being fermented with live yeast culture of S. cerevisiae and dried under room Daily hay consumed (g) 160.9 72.50
Daily green fodder consumed (g) 193.9 96.25
temperature to be fed as a part of the concentrate mixture.
Daily total feed consumed (g) 923.1 -

Intensive feeding on concentrate and roughage Total body weight gain (kg) 15.2 -
Feed efficiency (Feed: Gain) 5.47 -
Intensive feeding of lambs on complete feed consists of roughage and concentrates Total feed cost - 969.15
mixture in 50:50 or free grazing on available grazing lands and ad libitum concentrate Total feed cost during pre and post weaning - 1204.35

38

Page 26

Complete Feed Blocks for Scarcity Feeding

Meat yield Livestock in general and small ruminants in particular are the most vulnerable during
Parameters Yield Cost (Rs) drought and famine. Livestock feeding during scarcity is yet not established to save livestock
Meat yield (kg) @Rs 280/kg 16.5 4620.00 wealth. Every year one or the other part of the country faces feed scarcity–drought like
Head and hooves (kg) 2.50 250.00 situations. Complete feed blocks (CFB) can be prepared from available poor quality
Skin with wool (kg) 3.00 200.00
roughage and can be fed to the animals as and when required. Complete feed blocks are the
Edible offals 2.50 700.00
compressed product containing roughage and concentrate along with molasses, minerals,
Intestines (including rumen) 2.50 100.00
Total - 5870.00 urea and salt etc in desired proportion.
Economic analysis
Technology Details
Meat basis Live animal basis
Receipt
Most of the poor quality roughages are bulky in nature and require larger space for storage
Live weight (for 33 kg) @ Rs 140/kg - 4620.00
and creates problems in feeding, transportation and handling. These problems can be
Meat yield (kg) @Rs 280/kg 4620.00 -
minimized by converting the bulky feeds into complete feed blocks by Complete Feed Block
Head and hooves (kg) 250.00 -
Skin with wool (kg) 200.00 - Making Machine. The complete feed block of roughage and concentrate mixture can be
Edible offals 700.00 - prepared in 65:35 ratio including 5 per cent of molasses for easy binding. The blocks are
Intestines and rumen 100.00 - prepared by applying a pressure of 4000-5000 psi by machine.
Manure @ Rs 10/kg 920.00 920.00
Total 6790.00 5540.00 Salient Findings
Expenditure
Cost of lamb of one month age 980.00 980.00 Use of feed block in sheep reduces wastage of feed materials as well as the cost by 30 to
 Concentrate
Legume hay feed 978.60
83.20 978.60
83.20 35%. CFB also reduces bulk density by 33% and can be stored up to 2 yrs in dry weather
without deterioration in nutrients. Feeding of CFB increases dry matter intake by 15-25% as
Green fodder 142.45 142.45
compared to feeding the materials in its mash form in different species viz. cattle, buffaloes
Total feed 1204.25 1204.25
and sheep. Nutrient utilization also increased in ruminants fed CFB than those fed the mash
Medicine 40.00 40.00
Labour for 5 months @ Rs 4500/month 225.00 225.00 feed. Average daily gain was 60% higher in grazing lambs supplemented with CFB in
Total expenditure 2449.25 2449.25 comparison to those maintained on grazing. The operation cost of CFB is Rs 0.30/kg. The
Net income 4340.75 3090.75 cost of feed block including ingredients and preparation comes to Rs 600 per 100 kg. The
Cost: benefit ratio 1:2.77 1:2.26 machine can prepare feed block @ 1.0-1.5 q per hr.

40

Page 27

Adoption in Farmers' Field

The precious livestock species

Ingredients Production ration (%)
are lost during drought and
Straws/grasses/stovers 35 famine due to feed and fodder
Concentrate mixture 60 scarcity. Presently farmers are
Molasses 5 resorting to migration to escape
Composition of Concentrate mixture the natural calamities. This
Grains (maize /barley/millet) 30 technology will ensure
Mustard cake 20 sustenance of the livestock in
situ thereby the farmers
Ground nut cake 12
conditions will ameliorate and
Wheat bran 16
precious animal resource will be
Deoiled rice bran 20
insulated against natural
Mineral mixture and salt 2
calamities and feed scarcity.

The intense livestock producing zones are perennially deficient in feed resources
compelling the state concern to invest heavily during drought and famine in
transporting fodder from neighbouring states. The fodder has low bulk density hence
transportation is costly affair. Feed blocking facilitates transportation as well as
reduces cost of transportation. Moreover, the self-life of block range from 1- 2 year in
 semiarid and arid environment hence ideally suited to be used in feed bank to insulate
farmers against famine.

The cost of machine is Rs 10.00 lakhs. Advance Hydrau-Tech Pvt. Ltd., Delhi, Perfect Hydro
Machines India Pvt. Ltd, Gurgaon, Nav Indus Food Machines Pvt. Ltd. Chennai and Poshak
Agrivet Pvt Ltd, Karnal are manufacturing and supplying machine in the country. Poshak
Agrivet Pvt Ltd, Karnal, adopted the feed block technology and commercially preparing and
selling in the market/ rural areas.

42

Page 28

Restructuring Carcasses of Cull Ewes by Supplementary Feeding of Sheep for

Nutritional Manipulation
Ewes above 6 years of age are generally considered to be beyond optimum production and
are thus neglected leading to loss of body condition. Approximately 40 % sheep of these
categories are culled from the flock and sold for slaughter in the country. These cull sheep
have low body condition score and poor dressing yield, and herd owners mostly dispose
them at a lower price and do not regard them as valuable meat animals. Challenge feeding
involving feeding of high-energy dense ration for 2-3 month is developed for harnessing
rapid compensatory gain in body weight and body condition and improving the carcass
quality of these animals so that both the producers as well as the consumers are benefited.
Growth, Production and Reproduction
Sheep are reared mainly on rangeland and stubble of cropped land after harvesting and
supplemented top feeds during lean season. The yield of rangeland is low in terms of
quantity and quality resulting in poor nutrition. Energy deficiency in sheep throughout the
year is the greatest limitation and inadequate protein during scarcity period aggravates the
situation. During the period from January to June, the energy crisis reflected in loss of
production. Concentrate supplementation in addition to grazing is required to sustain
growth, reproduction and production. Pre weaning and post feeding of lambs is already
detailed in earlier chapters.

Technology Details Hogget : Feeding of hogget is crucial in females for attaining earlier maturity and body
weights for breeding. Hogget are essentially offered concentrate mixture at the rate of 200 g
Concentrate feeding of cull ewes at 2.5 % of body weight for 90 days before slaughter is found
daily in addition to grazing. The rate of supplementation should be adjusted depending
to revamp >11.0 kg live weight with a feed input cost of Rs 1050 (~65 kg concentrate at Rs
upon forage supply from grazing land. Male hogget should be supplemented at the rate of
16.0/kg) and thus benefiting the farmer easy marketability and an additional income of Rs
300 g daily.
600.0/animal (Rs 150.0/kg live weight gain). Further, the quality improvement in this process
meet the consumer demand as well as the increasing demand of the country for animal
protein. It is also suggested to increase the energy density by incorporating by-pass fat and Feeding schedule of sheep during different stages
economizing the ration with incorporation of urea (1%) to partly replace costly protein source Categories Milk Concentrate mixture Grazing
(g/day) (h/day)
in the concentrate mixture. It is also suggested to limit the live weight gain to 10.0 kg in quicker st
Lamb 0-2 month Colostrums up to 5 days after birth @ 1/10th From I wk age 4-5
 time due to wider FCR and accumulation of more fat in later stages of challenge feeding. of BW then milk @1/10th of BW twice daily 75-100 (creep ration) (15 days of age)
th
Lamb 2-3 month Milk @ 1/15 of BW twice daily 100-250 (creep ration) 4-5

Lamb 3-6 month - 300-400 6-8

Hogget - 200 8

Pregnant sheep - 300-400 8

Lactating sheep - 400-450 8 -10

Dry sheep - 150-200 8-10
Breeding ram - 300 8-10

44

Page 29

Area-Specific Mineral Mixture for Sheep

Flushing of breeding stock : Supplementation of concentrate mixture at the rate of 250-350
g daily 3-4 weeks before the breeding season brining the animals in oestrus at a time and
also improve multiple birth and conception rate. In field flocks of dry regions, the fresh pods
of acacia/ khejri trees at the rate of 300-350 g daily brings animals in oestrus.
Pregnant sheep: The sheep during last quarter of pregnancy require extra feed for rapid
growth of foetus growing in the womb as well as nourishment of their own body. A
concentrate mixture containing maize (30), groundnut cake (20), wheat bran (20), de-oiled
rice bran (23), molasses (5), mineral mixture (1) and common salt (1) in parts should be
prepared. Generally 300-400 g of concentrate mixture should be supplemented in addition
to grazing.
and Goats
Mineral deficiency or excess in animals is an area specific problems and influenced to a
great extend by mineral content and its bioavailability from feeds and fodders in the tropics.
Sheep and goats are maintained in rangeland system that does not meet the exact
requirement of minerals in the tropical regions. Supplementation of area specific mineral
mixture to animals, meet the exact requirement of minerals and avoids excess or deficiency
of minerals. In the market, mineral mixture are sold in powder form has little utility in sheep
flocks. Since farmers maintain sheep on pastures without any kind of grain
supplementation. Thus alternate mode of mineral mixture in pellet form was developed for
easy delivery.
Technology Details

Lactating sheep: Some kind of supplementation either in the form of tree leaves or Area specific mineral mixtures for

concentrate mixture should be offered to sheep during lactation. In organized farms, sheep and goats of semiarid Rajasthan
have been developed for improving
concentrate mixture of 400-450 g daily after grazing is recommended in sheep flocks.
health, reproduction and production.
Breeding rams: Breeding rams should be grazed and supplemented 300 g of concentrate The area specific mineral mixture in
mixture during breeding season for improving the semen quality and libido. powder form was prepared from the
calcium carbonate, di calcium
 Technology Adoption and their Impact phosphate, cobalt sulphate, zinc
sulphate, copper sulphate and
The technology of supplementary feeding in sheep during different stages of production common salt. The concentrations of
has been demonstrated in the field flocks. Farmers have realized the importance of calcium, phosphorus, copper, zinc and cobalt in 100 g of mineral mixture are: 35.31 g, 13.64
supplementary feeding to sheep maintained on community lands In prevailing scarcity of g, 318 mg, 324 mg and 76 mg, respectively.
feed resources from grazing lands during summer months, farmers follow some kind of
Mineral mixture pellets of 5g incorporating the required minerals concentration were
supplementation in form of agricultural by products or grains or tree leaves to sheep for
prepared with molasses (1%) as binder. It was dried at room temperature for establishing
sustainable production.

46

Page 30

Establishment of Pasture for Higher

Fodder Production
desirable hardness for easing the transportation and preventing breakage losses. Average
The changed environmental conditions and poor management of grazing or pasture-lands
size of pellets: 2.5 cm length and 6 mm diameter.
have caused severe degradation of these resources of the country especially in tribal belt of
Salient Findings semi-arid region. There is huge gap between demand and supply of green as well as dry fodder
in India. With proper management and use of latest technology, productivity from existing
The supplementation of pellet
grazing or pasture lands can be increased 8-20 times than unmanaged pasture lands.
mineral mixture to sheep (@5 g /day
for 5 months) increased wool yield by Ardu (Ailanthus excels) based three-tier agro-forestry system
8-9%, during 3 month of early
lactation increased milk yield by 10- Three-tier agro-forestry
15% and supplementation of mineral system having Ardu (Ailanthus
mixture to anoestrus sheep brought excelsa) as fodder tree on top
60% of sheep into oestrus within 15- storey – 100 trees/ha in a
2
21 days and remaining 40% after 42 configuration of 10 X 10 m ,
days of supplementation. The supplementation of area specific mineral mixture recovered Dichro (Dichrostachys nutans)
sheep from keratinization of skin and improve wool growth. In organised farm, as fodder bush at middle
supplementation of area specific mineral mixture in concentrate mixture at the rate of 2% storey – 100 bush/ha one bush
of feed in feeding of sheep flocks reduce the case of urinary calculi, stomatitis and wool in between two ardu tree and
shedding.
food /fodder arable crops
 Adoption by the Farmers
Since cost of mineral mixture is very low and it comes to Rs. 8.25 / sheep / month. It can be
easily adopted by even the poor farmers. Farmers are ready to take the technology since it
has many benefits. The accessibility of mineral mixture to farmers can be enhanced by
making it available to farmers at their doorsteps through dairy cooperative society in the
villages, State extension departments, NGOs, State Agricultural Universities, Indian Council
of Agricultural Research institutions and Agriculture extension centres may be involved in
the dissemination of technology.
along with Cenchrus grass strip
4 m wide ( 2 m both side of tree
row) is a good insurance in drought prone area, which not only reduces climatic risk but also
maximizes food and fodder production per unit area per unit time in semi-arid regions.
Average productivity of various crops in three-tier agro-forestry system increased by 4.71
and 12.95% in dry fodder yield, 5.43 and 22.57% in seed yield and 4.85 and 14.34% in
biomass yields in comparison to two-tier agro-forestry system and open field conditions,
respectively.

48

Page 31

Grass pasture establishment and management for semi-arid regions extinguishing unpalatable and low nutrition grasses like Aristida spp. through successional
trend and regenerates the nutritious and quality grasses.
Anjan (Cenchrus ciliaris) and Dhaman
This practice also helps in establishment of Cenchrus pasture on sloppy degraded lands
(Cenchrus setigerous) are prominent
when sown along the V-ditch contour bund across the slope, which is otherwise not
grasses of semi-arid regions and
possible on sloppy lands. Fodder trees are planted inside V-ditch contour bund along with
pastures are established by opening
pond mud + sheep manure ensured higher moisture status and resulted in higher survival.
the furrows (45 cm apart) after
receiving a good rainfall. Prepared Mixed cropping and forage quality improvement
grass seed (well mixed with moist soil
and sheep manure in equal quantity) In order to increase the quality and quantity of pasture, legumes species are introduced,
is dropped in bunches into furrows since legumes are rich source of proteins and are palatable to most of the livestock species.
and press by foot. Apply fertilizer on Perennial legumes like Dolichos, Clitoria, Siratro, Stylosanthes and Atylosia spp. can be
pasture @ 60 kg N, 40 kg P O and 40 kg K O per hectare. Weeding is done at 30-35 days after
2 5 2 incorporated as a mixed crop in pasture to improve pasture quality as well as quantity. Dry
planting. Dry fodder of grass at maturity is harvested 5 cm above the ground. Animal grazing fodder yield of 28.80 q in cenchrus alone, 37.50 q in Cenchrus + Siratro (Macroptilius
is avoided in pasture establishment year and next year, grass may be harvested 40 days after atropurpureum), 45 q in Cenchrus + Clitoria (Clitoria ternatea) and 59 q/ha in Cenchrus +
first rain and then animals may be introduced for grazing. Dolichos (Dolichos lablab) has been obtained.

Establishing pasture and silvi-pasture at sloppy degraded lands for soil and water
 conservation

V-ditch contour bund along with

panipula (Saccharum munja) as a
vegetative barrier is good soil and
water conservation measure on
sandy loam sloppy degraded lands in
semi-arid regions. It helps in

50

Page 32

through lopping / pruning of trees,

Annual legume like Cowpea, Guar and Moth can also be grown as nurse crops in Cenchrus
popularly known as top feeds. The leaf
pasture during first year of establishment. This not only increases total biomass but also
fodder yield per tree varies considerably
provide quality forage from grass-legume mixed pasture. Cenchrus alone yield 8.90,
and it depends on species, initial age,
Cenchrus + Moth 13.00, Cenchrus + Guar (Cymopsis tetragonoloba) 14.90 and Cenchrus +
lopping intensity and interval as well as
Cowpea (Vigna sinsensis) 19.20 q/ha.
agro-climatic conditions.

Horti-pasture system
Ardu can be lopped fully twice a year in the
month of December and May-June after 5
Horti-pasture system is highly remunerative in semi-arid region due to assured income from
year of plantation while, fully-grown Neem
the fruit trees. Ber and aonla trees are prominent fruit crops of dry areas. In mixed pasture
can be lopped fully once in a year in the
of grass Cenchrus setigerous and legume Dolichos lab lab (1:2 row ratio), incorporation of
month of December-January. However, young tree of Neem can be lopped fully twice a year in
ber and aonla as fruit tree in the
2 December-January and May-June. Reverse is true for Khejri. Young Khejri plant can be lopped
configuration of 8x8 m resulted into
fully only once in a year, however, full-grown tree/age old tree can be lopped two-third twice a
higher returns than sole pasture
year in May-June and November-December.
without affecting the forage production.
Out of ber and aonla, the productivity of Adoption by the Farmers
mixed pasture of C. setigerus and D. lab
 lab under ber-based horti-pasture The technology of fodder production can play an important role in government programmes
system was higher and it was more on poverty alleviation and food security, environmental conservation and soil health, income
profitable than aonla based hoti- generation and rural employment opportunities and Private-Public partnership for

pasture system.
Lopping management of fodder trees
Trees and shrubs in the silvi-pastoral system and road side avenue trees often contribute
substantial amount of leaf fodder especially in arid and semi-arid regions during lean period
betterment of life. Farmers of the dry area are very keen to adopt any advancement related to
fodder. Farmers of Institute adjoining area are improving unproductive community grazing
lands by establishing cenchrus pasture with the help of Institute experts and NGOs. Many
famers introduced fodder tree ardu as boundary plantation and used it as source of green
fodder especially in the lean period. Aonla based horti-pasture system is quite common in
semi-arid regions, reflect impact of the Institute technologies.

52

Page 33

Broiler Rabbit Rearing for Meat and Fur Skin

Rabbit produces high quality CSWRI imported broiler rabbit breeds like Soviet Chinchilla, Grey Giant and White Giant
nutritious meat which is high in from Russia and New Zealand White from U.K. and introduced the concept of commercial
protein and low in fat, cholesterol rabbit rearing for meat and fur. The body weights of 1.7 to 2.0 kg at 12 weeks and litter size
and sodium. It is a timid and shy
of 6 at weaning with 5-6 kindling per annum
animal which can be handled easily
has been achieved. One doe can provide 25-30
by women and children. Its manure is
young ones or 50-60 kg live weight or 27.5-33
very rich source of nitrogen and
kg carcass yield in a year. A small-scale unit of
required in small quantities to enrich
10 females and 2 males is usually established
soil. Its high reproduction rate, early
maturity, rapid growth rate, high at the start and the enterprise can be

genetic selection potential, efficient
feed and land space utilization, limited competition with man for similar foods and high
quality nutritious meat are some of its other merits. In addition, its skin is soft and luxurious
that can fulfil the demands of fur industry. A small-scale backyard rabbitry can be a useful
enterprise to improve the socio-economic condition of the tribal, rural and urban poor.
Technology Details
expanded later as per demand. By the end of
the year around 200-250 animals are available
for sale and self-consumption and gives a return of Rs. 100 per animal on sale of meat only
while its processed fur and fur garments have the potential to provide additional income.
Adoption by the Farmers
Nearly 30000 rabbits have been sold by the CSWRI all over the country for establishment of
 Broiler rabbits are very adaptable and, thus can be reared all over the country with minor
adjustments. Being an induced ovulator, it can be literally bred throughout the year. Rabbits
are housed in sheds either by hanging the cages or placing the cages on fixed stands in a two
tier system. The sheds should be well ventilated with mud floors to absorb urine to keep
ammonia levels low inside the shed. The cages are made of galvanized wire mesh of 1 x 2
inches for sides and 1 x 0.5 inches for floor of cage in a 20 L x 20 W x 16.5 H inches cage
dimension. For maternity purpose, a nest box is attached to the cage so that young ones can
rabbit farms (> 500 rabbit farms). The major impact is visible in the southern states. The
rabbit enterprise can be a source of employment for people of different strata of society.
Some people can be engaged in opening rabbit nurseries where young ones are produced
and sold after weaning i.e., 4 weeks of age. The other group of persons can be involved in
growing this weaned stock up to marketable or slaughter age i.e., 12 weeks of age. Another
group of entrepreneurs can collect these 12 weeks old growers from farmers and supply to
butchers or meat processing factories. Therefore, one can safely say that rabbit rearing will

be reared near, yet separately. Rabbits are fed compounded pellet feed instead of mash. have a positive impact on the meat production and economy in the country.

54

Page 34

Angora Rabbit Rearing for Wool Production

quality green fodder or hay. Water is provided ad libitum daily. Cage, bowls and floor are
Angora rabbit produced high quality
cleaned daily to maintain the hygienic conditions and to reduce the incidence of diseases.
valuable fibre which can be used in small
The rabbits should be housed in a well ventilated room or low cost shed constructed from
scale handloom industries. This can be
locally available materials. Each animal is sheared manually with scissors at a regular
useful enterprise for additional income,
interval of 75 days when the angora fiber length is above 6 cm and an adult animal can yield
employment and empowerment of
about 150 to 250 g wool per shearing or 750-1250 g wool /annum. Mortality in young ones
women. CSWRI introduced Angora rabbits
is influenced by management and care and kit mortality up to 10% is acceptable.
in the public sector for the first time in the
country and brought its potential into Adoption by the Farmers
limelight. During the last 25 years Angora
There is ample scope for angora wool production
rabbit rearing has emerged as an important enterprise in the hilly regions of the country.
in the country as the current demand for angora
wool is being met through import from China.
Technology Details
The technology has been adopted well in the
The German Angora rabbits (8 female + 4 males) on book value are being provided by the states of Himachal Pradesh, Uttaranchal, Sikkim
institute after a week training programme. These animals can be bred at least three times in and Rajasthan (Mount Abu). Consequent to the
year and produce about 100-120 kits (young ones). Breeding of animals is recommended technology adoption, in HP, many smaller wool
processing units as well wool processing industries
 only during the initial stages of rabbitry build up, for replacement of dead or old stock, or for
sale of live animals as per demand. Breeding reduces wool production up to 75% in females
and it is the adult females which constitute the majority of the flock in the rabbitry as they
contribute 15-20% more wool than the males. The surplus males should be castrated at 4-5
months of age to increase their wool production. Young-ones are kept along with their
mothers in kindling cages and weaned after sexing at 42 days of age. After weaning, each
animal is kept separately in all wire cage (1.5 ft x 2 ft x 1.5 ft) fitted with two steel/earthen
bowls for feed and water. The rabbits are provided compounded pellet feed (@80 – 240 g
/head/day) depending on the age and physiological stage of the animal and availability of
have come up in the recent past.
The Angora yarn generated in HP is taking care of shawl and woollen garment industry
requirements of HP as well as J&K. The technology is well tested and acceptable by the
farmers in view of handsome return of around Rs. 1287/animal/annum. This activity can
flourish further if angora wool is categorized as an agriculture produce and provided
minimum support price (MSP) and other support mechanisms as extended to crops. The
technology can not only generate local employment with good income but a good amount

56

Page 35

Utilization of Rabbit Fur for Making

Fashionable Items
Skin is an important by product of broiler rabbits, which is covered with soft luxurious fur. The skin are taken out from the solution and dipped for 1-2 hr in another solution having
The country has a thriving fur industry, which requires 3-4 million skins annually, out of this following composition:
rabbit skins accounts for meagre skins. There is a good scope for obtaining good quality fur O
Luke warm water (35 C) : 10 times the weight of skin
at cheaper rates from meat rabbits to fulfil the domestic demand as well as to earn valuable
Detergent : 1 g /litre of water
foreign exchange. Rabbit skin products fetch a good price in the country and abroad.
Therefore, in order to get full economic benefit from broiler rabbit rearing, it is essential to Sodium bicarbonate : 1 g /litre of water

process and utilize the skin for making final products. The best quality fur skins are obtained
After dipping, the meat layer (fascia)
from older animals during the cold months of the year. The fur from 12-14 weeks old
attached to the skin are removed by
animals, which are preferred for meat, though not of very good quality, can still be utilized
pulling out either by hand or by any
for making caps, cushions, purses, gloves, jackets, toys and fancy items. For obtaining good
sharp tool / knife and the process is
quality fur, the older animals of more than 3 years of age are preferred.
called scouring. Next step is called

Technology Details pickling of skin. The scoured skins are

dipped in 5% salt (Sodium chloride)
CSWRI has developed and standardized a chrome tanning method for rabbit fur skin solution (10 times of the weight of the
processing. This method has been found to be most suitable for improving the quality of the skin) for about 15 min. Subsequently,
skin as well as for increasing the shelf life of the fur skin products. Skin processing begins the skins are kept in formic acid solution
 with stretching the skin over a stretcher and drying in a shade for two days. Skins dried to (2 g /litre of water) for half an hour. Final step in pickling involves overnight dipping of these
15% of its original weight can be stored safely for a week. The dried and stretched skins are skins in solution containing sulphuric acid @0.5 -1.0 ml per litre of water. Pickling is followed
then soaked overnight in a solution having following composition: by process called tanning of skin and consist of several chemical interventions.

Water : 15 times the weight of skin After overnight pickling of skins, these are washed thoroughly under tap water to remove
Detergent : 1 g / litre of water the sulphuric acid. After washing the skins are dipped in 5% salt solution (10times the
Sodium trichlorophenate : 0.25 g /litre of water weight of the skin) for about 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, formaldehyde (@1 ml /litre) is
added to the salt solution and skins are kept in it for an hour. After one hour, chrome powder
Zinc chloride : 0.25 g /litre of water
(chromium sulphate anhydrous) @ 8 g /litre of water is dissolved in the salt formaldehyde
Salt : 5 g / litre of water
solution and skins are kept overnight in this solution. Next day skins are removed from the

58

Page 36

Aesthetic and Durable Carpet from

Indigenous Wool and Its Blends
solution and put in another solution containing sodium bicarbonate and sodium acetate Indian wool is graded as best carpet type wool as it provides excellent resilience, lustre and
(each @ 1 g /litre of water), having volume 10times the weight of the skin, for about 2 hours. performance. Sheep breeds producing carpet wool in Rajasthan are Magra, Chokla and
Thereafter, skins are water for 3-4 hr with water and stacked one upon another for draining.
Marwari. Among them, Magra sheep produces excellent quality carpet wool. Magra wool
Drained skins are dried in open for one day. Tanning is followed by talllowing, where fat
in pure form gives excellent resiliency and lustre property to the carpet, however, the
treatment of the skins is done. In this process, fat, mixed in hot water, of any origin @2-3g
carpet has low abrasion resistance. In order to improve the abrasion resistance, Institute
/100g of skin weight is applied and spread uniformly on the inner side (side without hairs) of
has developed a process in which the wool is blended with 10% nylon fibre.
the skin. After fat treatment, skins are kept one upon another for 24 hr and dried next day.

Technology Details
After polishing, the skins are ready for making the different products. The products could be
made using sewing machine or with hands on the designs, patterns and procedures as used
• The carpet wool of Magra is blended with nylon (10%) and converted into 4 Nm carpet
with the cloth.
yarn
Salient Findings • The yarns are dyed with metal complex dyes into different shades having good colour
fastness
Technology improves the quality, longevity and aesthetic value of the skin, it requires
minimum of input and infrastructure and makes meat rabbit rearing more profitable, after • The yarns are converted into hand knotted carpet with intricate design having quality
2

a training of about 2 weeks, one can utilize the technology effectively, it provides value 100 knots /inch (10 X 10) and 12 mm pile height
addition to the skins, which otherwise discarded as waste or of a little value and skin • In second lot, the yarns are woven into handloom carpet with single colour having
 processed and made in to garment / product could fetch as high as Rs 150-200 as against the
2

1200-1500 g/m and 10 mm pile height

raw skin valued Rs 10-15.
• Carpet is chemically washed along with anti moth treatment
Adoption by the Artisans
Salient Findings
This activity if implemented in a planned manner will not only flourish the broiler rabbit
rearing in the country, but is bound to lift the socio-economic status of a certain strata of the The high cost and low productivity of hand knotted carpets make them unaffordable to
society. Moreover, India being a tourist hub has a good scope for such handicraft products. middle income group, especially in cold region of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh
If sustained, this technology will show positive economic impact by alleviating poverty and and Uttrakhand for desired comfort.
protein hunger and providing gainful employment.

60

Page 37

Angora Rabbit Hair – Bharat Merino

Wool Blended Shawls
The high productivity, low cost and profitable carpet manufacturing through handloom
The woollen products prepared from Angora rabbit hair are always in high demand due to
weaving has been introduced to weave plain and strips carpets for wall to wall covering.
their special attributes like high thermal insulation and superior softness with light weight.
These carpets provide equivalent comfort and interiors in households and offices.
Conventionally, Angora rabbit hair is blended with imported Australian Merino wool in
Hand Hand different proportions to spin into yarn using machine and manufacturing good quality
knotted loom shawls. An attempt has been made to use Indigenous fine cross bred wool for blending in
Price of raw wool (Rs/kg) 70.00 place of imported Merino wool for producing quality shawls.
Spinning cost (Rs/kg) 60.00
Technology Details
Yarn realization (%) 70.00

Cost of yarn (Rs/kg) 150.00 The blend level of Angora hair and Bharat Merino wool has been optimized in the ratio of
Dyeing cost (Rs/kg) 25.00 60: 40. Angora hair is blended with Bharat Merino wool using modified cotton card at slow

Cost of dyed yarn (Rs/kg) 175.00 speed to avoid breakage and processed into yarn using semi worsted system using gill box,
roving frame and worsted ring frame.
Yarn required (kg/ sq. ft of carpet) 0.40 0.112

Yarn cost per carpet (Rs/sq. ft) 70.00 20.00 The blended yarn is then used to weave shawl in 2/2 twill weave pattern on handloom.
Weaving charge (Rs/sq. ft) 250.00 21.00 Conventionally, the shawls are only subjected to alkaline scouring treatment. However, it
Finishing charges (Rs/sq. ft) 17.00 25.00 was observed that the quality of the shawls can be improved through further chemical
 Cost of carpet (Rs/sq. ft) 338.00 80.00 treatments. A chemical finishing process has been optimized in order to improve the
whiteness, softness and pilling resistance of developed shawl.
Sale price (Rs/sq. ft) 372.00 88.00

In this process, the shawl is bleached with 4 gpl hydrogen peroxide (H O ) followed by2 2

Adoption by the Industries / Artisans / Handloom Sectors

The technology has been adopted by the Chetna Carpets, Gazsinghpura, Jaipur and Ganga
Carpets, Jaipur. The adoption of the technology eases the processes of carpet making,
finishing and backing of hand knotted and handloom carpets. The firms are also able to
increase their productivity, quality and sale in the market by adoption of technology.
treatment with 0.25% optical brightening agent. The bleached shawl is then treated with
finishing with 2 gpl cationic silicone softener in the same bath. Such processed shawl shows
30% higher whiteness and 20% improved softness and significant reduction in pilling as
compared to conventionally processed shawl.

62

Page 38

Development of Woollen Handicrafts from

Non- apparel Grade Wool
Salient Findings The namada (felt) is one of
the handicraft products
The produced Angora shawl shows 30% higher whiteness and 20% higher softness
which are made from non-
compared to the conventionally produced shawl. The Bharat Merino wool can be used in
apparel grade wool with
place of Merino wool to produce Angora blended shawls.
traditional design. Coarse
Adaptation by the Artisans/Industries and Handloom Sector wool is utilized for felt
manufacturing and felts are
The Shikhar Handloom Cooperative Society, Rampur (HP) adopted the improved process of
prepared in various thickness,
bleaching and softening treatment to enhance the value of the shawl. The shawls
colour and size. Innovative
processed by this method also showed significant reduction in pilling tendency which is one
and durable wall hangings are
of the major problems associated with Angora shawls. Such processed shawls are getting
developed from namda.
wider acceptance among the consumers due to enhanced quality.
Development of diversified
handicrafts from coarse grade wool provides sustainable livelihood opportunities to the
artisans through innovative product designs and preserving traditions.
 Technology Details
The traditional manufacturing process is modified. Anti moth treatment is introduced
during dyeing. The stages like pattern making, designing, cutting, pasting and stitching are
added into manufacturing. The feature adds value and character to the product. By using
the modified manufacturing process, different home furnishing articles like handmade
painting and wall hangings are developed having novel designs. Different geometric figures
and artistic designs may be produced by using different colour combination and thereafter
stitching of felts.

64

Page 39

Natural Colours for Wool and Specialty

Salient Findings
Value addition of traditional namda process leads to higher income generation
Fetch income to farmers from the coarse grade wool
Hair Fibre
In recent years, the concern for the clean environment has created a deep interest in
natural dyes. India has a rich tradition of utilization of natural dyes in textiles. The animal
fibre like wool and specialty hair fibre are used to produce unique products. The value of
such products can be improved if they are dyed with natural colour. Keeping above facts in

Sustainable livelihood opportunities and employment generation at rural sector view, several sources of natural dyes are screened for dyeing wool and specialty hair fibre.

Provide platform for artisans to show their creativity and nurture the rural talent Technology Details

The extractions of colourant and application process on the fabric are optimized. Efforts
have been made to produce a comprehensive natural dyeing process by which the wool can
be dyed into all range of colours with good light and wash fastness properties. The natural
sources used and the colours produced are:

Colour Source Mordant Shades produced

Yellow Onion skin Without mordant Yellow

Aluminum sulphate Lemon yellow
Saffron Without mordant Greenish yellow
 Silver oak Yellow
Onion skin Stannous chloride Orange
Adoption by the Artisans
Silver oak Orange
The economic analysis shows that good profit of margin to all value chain partners. The Madder Orange
Yellow root Bright lemon yellow
technology is adopted by Shabukta Self Help Group (SHG) of Tonk district. Some of the
Brown Madder+Dhol kanali Reddish brown
artisans of Malpura and Tonk are benefitted by using the developed technology.
Henna Reddish brown
Eucalyptus bark Without mordant Brown
Wattle Brown
Wall nut Coffee brown

66

Page 40

Adopted by the Industries / Artisans / Handloom Sector

Red Madder Red brown
Annota Aluminum sulphate Pinky red
The technology was demonstrated to dyeing industries and Pashmina processing artisans
Ratanjot Blood red
of Srinagar, J&K and Kullu, HP like M/s Colours of Kashmir, Srinagar, Pant Woollen Mills,
Cochineal Pinky red
Village Hurla, Bhunter, artisans of Ghordant village, Kullu etc. The faculty members of Craft
Blue Indigo Without mordant Indigo blue
Design Institute were also trained for using natural dyes with fastness properties. The
Green Fresh flowers Without mordant/ Green
process is eco-friendly and the shades obtained are with acceptable fastness properties.
of saffron Alum
The colour obtained from new sources like saffron flower and onion have greater
Onion skin Ferrous sulphate Military green
acceptability among the consumers.
Pomegranate rind Military green
Grey/ Silver oak Dark grey
Black Henna Black
Shisham Grey
Wall nut Black

Salient Findings
 Wool and speciality hair fibres
can be dyed comprehensively
with developed natural dyes
in all colours with good
fastness properties. The
natural dyed materials are
found to have functional
properties like antimicrobial,
anti moth etc.

68

Page 41

High Quality Blankets from Indigenous Wool

Good quality and cost effective woollen blankets are prepared from indigenous wool with soft
feel and prickle less effect on the body. Numbers of studies have been conducted from fibre to
fabric stage to optimize the blend of coarse wool, fine wool and synthetic fibre. The blankets are
woven on hand loom with appropriate picks per inch. The chemical processing of indigenous
blankets improves the functional properties and makes the blanket more attractive.

Technology Details

High quality check blankets

using different colour
patterns are developed by
optimising different wool mix.
Indian wool of different
fineness mixed in different
proportion is spun into 3-4
Adoption by Handloom Sector
Nm yarn on woollen spinning
 system. Fine crossbred wool: indigenous Chokla wool: Nylon in the proportion of 45:50:5
found optimum blend for good quality blanket. The blanket is woven on handloom as per
the BIS specifications. The chemical finishing treatments viz. milling, decatizing and raising
are given to enhance softness and dimensional stability of blanket.
Salient Findings
The blanket possesses excellent thermal insulation properties
It has softness and good handle
The blending of nylon gives adequate strength and durability to the blanket
The shrinkage is under tolerance limit
The technology of blankets developed by the institute is
well accepted by the Khadi and Village Industries
Commission (KVIC) and Jammu and Kashmir Small Scale
and Rural Industries. Khadi institutions working under
KVIC have scaled up their blanket manufacturing with
reduced production cost due to the utilization of
indigenous wool. The reduction in sale price of such
blankets significantly enhanced the consumer
preference to wool blanket compared to acrylic
blankets.

70

Page 42

Value Added Mutton Products

carried out in water bath. The sausages are cooled and packed in LDPE bags. The artificial or
Growing awareness and education about role
synthetic casings are peeled off before the product is packed, small sized natural casings
of meat in human nutrition are driving forces
need not be removed.
for increasing meat consumption. Ever-
increasing number of women entering in Nuggets (Ready-to-eat, partially or completely emulsion
workforce has created demand for ready to based product): These contain less fat and are moulded
eat as well as heat and serve type products. manually or mechanically. Nuggets are popular convenience
The meat can be processed into various value products and is generally used as a snack food or mixed with
added meat products which has been linked gravy. The product is packed in unit pouches and can be
0
with many advantages like creation of variety stored at 4 C for a week. It is usually shallow fat fried before
products, convenience, enhanced shelf life serving for breakfast or refreshment.
and creation of healthier meat products with low fat, salt and high in fibre. Meat processors
and consumers can benefit from the development of efficient and economical technology Patties: Meat patties are one of the most popular products

for processing meat into value-added products with high acceptability at reasonable cost. among the ground meat items and are generally used as filling for burger roll or sandwich.
Today, meat products are utilized to achieve consumer demands for products that have Patties are partially or completely emulsion based
unique sensory characteristics, health benefits and convenience attributes associated with product, contain less than 30% fat and are moulded
 processed meats. manually or mechanically. Lean meat is minced twice
through 6 mm plate and fat through 4 mm plate of a meat
Technology Details grinder. These are mixed thoroughly with all other
ingredients in an electrically operated mixer or prepared
Meat Sausages (Ready-to-eat products with wide variety of flavors, textures, and shapes):
into an emulsion. The meat emulsion/batter weighing
These are prepared from minced and seasoned meat and forming into cylindrical shape by
80-100 g is moulded into 70-80 mm diameter and 15-20
using natural or synthetic casings. Sausages have acquired universal popularity due to
mm thick patties. Raw patties may be frozen for future
variety and convenience to the consumers. Preparation of sausages involves deboning, 0
use or broiled in a pre-heated oven at 190 C for 20 min.
freezing, thawing for 12 h and cutting of the meat into cubes/chunks followed by mincing. 0
The internal temperature must reach 72 C. These are
The minced meat is processed for preparation of meat batter/ emulsion. Meat emuslion is
deep fat fried in many commercial establishments. The patties are cooled and consumer
stuffed into natural or synthetic casings followed by linking at specific length. Cooking is
packed.

72

Page 43

cut into chunks of 3-4 cm size and turmeric and half of the quantity of the vinegar is added
Enrobed Mutton Nuggets (Meat based then marinate is kept in the refrigerator for 2-3 h. Excess of fluid is drained out and meat
fast food) : These are popular by virtue of chunks are cooked in the pressure cooker for specific time. Spices and condiments are fried
their versatility and superior sensory in oil and cooked meat pieces are fried till brown coloration. Then meat chunks are allowed
properties. Enrobing contributes multiple to cool on and remaining half of the vinegar is added. The chunks are then filled in sterilized
benefits like value addition, improvement pet bottles/glass jar and heated and cooled refined oil
of nutritive value and texture profiles as layered on the top. Keep it at room temperature till seven
well as reduction of production cost. days for maturation.
Application of edible coatings has been
reported to extend shelf life and improve Mutton Kabab : Variety of kababs can be made either from
the quality of fresh frozen and fabricated mince or chunks of meat and other ingredients. Kababs are
foods. The mutton nuggets are coated with egg white, bread crumbs and other ingredients a dish of oriental origin, prepared by charbroiling. The
and then deep fat fried. This gives attractive golden brown color and enhances palatability flavour of charbroiled kababs is unique due to combustion
of the product. of fat that drips on the red hot charcoal. Oven roasting is
generally used for commercial scale cooking.
Meat Pickle : Presently more emphasis is given on developing shelf stable meat products,
 which can be stored at ambient temperature. Meat pickles are shelf stable, traditional and
ready to eat products. Pickling of
perishable foods in vinegar or edible oil
with added salt, spices and condiments
provide ready to eat products with good
shelf stability at ambient temperature.
Low moisture and reduced pH are the two
major factors contributing to shelf
stability of pickles.The meat pickles can
be stored at ambient temperature for 2-3
months. For preparation of pickle, meat is
74
Page 44
Enrobed Eggs: Preparation of enrobed eggs involves
hard boiling of eggs, separation of egg shell and coating
of around 50-60 g of mutton emulsion over the egg.
Coated eggs are cooked in water for 10-15 min.
Mutton Croquettes: Preparation of croquettes involves,
mixing of batter with
chaffed onion, curry leaves
and coriander leaves. Then
small lumps are deep fat fried in the oil at a temperature of
180-200ºC until golden brown colour appears. The
croquettes have unique flavour.
Meat Loaf: The meat mix or batter is tightly filled in
aluminium or steel loaf
Mutton Soup: After separation of meat from bones, the bone with leftover small quantity
of meat can be used to extract juice for preparation of mutton soup. For making soup, the
bones and frames are pressure cooked. The broth obtained is separated and filtered
through sieve. The broth is kept at refrigerated storage for overnight and then solidified fat
layer form the top is separated. Equal quantity of
water and broth are boiled separately. Spices and
condiments are fried in oil and salt, flavoring and
other ingredients are mixed and simmered for 5 min.
The contents are filtered through a sieve and served
hot.
0
mechanically. These are either stored raw or deep fat fried in refined vegetable oil at 135 C
for 3 min to get brown colour and fried flavor. Alternatively, these are cooked in hot water
0
maintained at 80 C. Water cooked balls may be subjected to light frying to get golden brown
0
colour. These can be kept at 4 C for a week. Whenever required, the cooked balls can be
simmered in gravy for a few minutes and enjoyed with rice or bread.
Salient Findings
Development of comminuted meat products is essential for best utilization of meat from
aged/cull animals. It is also helpful for efficient utilization of slaughter house by product.
The functional, inulin fortified, low fat mutton nuggets have been developed. The inulin has
number of advantages of low calorie, fat replacer and is also used as prebiotic. It is not
digested by humans thus makes it suitable as a dietary fibre. The enrobing of mutton
nuggets significantly improved sensory attributes like appearance and flavor.
Adoption of Technology
 pans. The pan-in mix is cooked in hot water maintained at
0
80 C or steam without pressure or broiled in hot air oven The meat processing industry is still in infancy; since only 1-2% of the total meat production
0
at 165 C for 2.5 to 3.0 h. The internal temperature of 70 C
0
is processed into value added meat products. Now scenario is changing rapidly with entries
of top players like like Shalimar Super Foods, Venkateswara Hatcheries, Godrej Agrovet, Al-
must be achieved. It is then cooled in water and chilled at
0 Kabeer, Arpit Enterprises, Allanasons, Mark International, Al-Barkat Exports, Nensey
4 C. The chilled loaves are either packed as such or cut
Poultry Farm, Prabhat Poultry, Vista Processed Foods, Fiza Exports, Meatzza - Darshan
into slices of desired thickness and packed. These slices
Foods, etc, with an aggressive rise of commodity branding; there is beginning to change the
can be used for making meat sandwich.
economics of the Indian meat processing industry. There is immense potential for
Meat Kofta (Meat Ball): It offers a great convenience to restaurants, hotels and housewives producing animal products for domestic and overseas markets. To get the benefits of
who can just put few balls in the gravy and serve the food within 10 min. The product is globalization, the production and processing of value added meat products has to be
prepared from ground meat. The meat emulsion of 15-20 g is rolled into balls manually or improved by deploying modern processing machinery and quality control techniques like
HACCP and GMP to meet the stringent standards of importing countries.

76

Page 45

Embryo Transfer Technique in Sheep

A quick and easy method of laparoscope aided two embryos gives better results with increased number of twin pregnancies. The success
embryo transfer is developed at the Institute. A depends on management of donor and recipient animals, synchronization of oestrus in
special designed cradle is fabricated for easy donors and recipients, superovulation of donors, embryo collection and evaluation,
restraining and positioning of ewe (suspended at transfer of embryos, and factors affecting survival of transferred embryos.
0

45 angles) for laparoscopy.

Practical Utility
The recipients having synchrony with donor are
It includes i) fast multiplication of superior germplasm, ii) preservation of endangered or
fasted for 24-36 hr before laparoscopy. Sedation is
diminishing breeds and iii) international exchange of germplasm.
induced with intramuscular injection of xylazine.
Xylocaine is administered subcutaneously as local
Adoption by the Commercial Farms
anesthetic. Abdominal area anterior to udder is Commercially embryo transfer technology in sheep in India is in its infancy. Only few
shaved and sprayed with 70% alcohol. Uterine progressive farmers like Asad Farm Pvt. Ltd., Anantpur (AP) adopted this technology.
horn is gently grasped with the forceps (modified
In Future Use and Utility
in our laboratory) and lifted through the puncture
site to expose a loop of horn. A blunt needle is In future this technology may be utilized for the production of transgenic sheep in India.
 used to make a small aperture in the loop of horn Transgenic
produced insheep which
Europe. produced human
Sheep-derived proteinantihemophylic factor
has now entered IX in
clinical milkfor
trials has beenfibrosis
cystic
and tom-cat catheter loaded with embryo is
introduced into lumen of horn. Embryo is pushed (UK and USA) and congenital emphysema (UK), and the utilization of cloning and transgenic

into the lumen and horn is again put into technology is making inroads into more traditional ways of making biopharmaceuticals.

abdomen. Skin is sutured or sealed with wound clippers. This technique does not require
costly equipment for inflating abdomen for laparoscopy and special imported atraumatic
forceps and other equipments.

Success Rate

The success rate of embryo transfer in sheep is around 50% in terms of pregnancy. A total of
240 lambs were produced through in vivo derived embryos at the institute. Transferring

78

Page 46

Ram Semen Freezing Techniques Ram semen

1 x 109 sperms/ml with Ey -TEST -G

Dilution

A freezing protocol has been developed for 2 h at 5°C

cryopreservation of ram semen of exotic, crossbred or
Equilibration
native breeds. Semen is frozen in medium (0.5 ml) and
@ - 25°C/min in cell freez er
mini (0.25 ml) size French plastic straws. The protocol
developed for freezing of semen is as below: Freezing

50° (0.25 ml) or 60°C (0.5 ml straw) for 10 sec

Thawing

Computer-aided semen analysis technique

Objective Assessment

Optimum conditions for cryopreservation of ram semen in straws

Variable Optimum Conditions The freezing protocol is based on controlled cooling and freezing in the programmable cell
freezer and CASA technique and involved following steps:
Extender Egg yolk tes tris glycerol (Ey-TEST-G)
9
 Extension rate @ 1 x 10 sperms/ml Start temperature: +25°C
Packaging size 0.25 ml mini & 0.5 ml medium size straws
Step 1: Hold for 10 minutes (it means that rate is zero and the temperature is maintained
Equilibration time 2 hr
at +25°C)
Mode of freezing Programmable LN vapour freezing
2

No seeding selected
Equipment Cell Freezer
Step 2: -0.15°C/min to +5°C
Thawing temperature 50°C for 0.25 ml straw
Step 3: Hold for 10 minutes (it means that rate is zero and the temperature is maintained
60°C for 0.50 ml straw
at +5°C)
Thawing time 10 seconds
Assessment Objective by CASA technique Step 4: -25°C/min to –125°C

Mean post-thaw motility 70 % Step 5: Hold for 10 minutes (it means that the rate is zero and the temperature is
maintained at –125°C)

80

Page 47

Molecular Technique for Identification of

Wool and Specialty Hairs
This semen freezing in different breeds by The pashmina fiber in India is produced in

this technique gives 70% average mean limited quantity and restricted to high

post-thaw motility of spermatozoa. The altitude in cold climate. Due to limited

high post-thaw recovery is depends on availability and high prices, adulteration of

ejaculates for cryopreservation, it should pashmina is a common practice. Sheep

have thick consistency, rapid wave wool is one of the adulterant for specialty

motion, 90% initial motility and >3000 x animal fiber because of it is cheap, available
6
10 spermatozoa per ml. and gross appearance matches with
Pashmina. The quality of ultrafine Merino
Practical Utility wool with 14-16 µ diameter is quite similar to Pashmina (Cashmere) and can be easily
adulterated for production of high quality value added products.
Widespread use of superior rams for artificial insemination

Ex-situconservation of elite or endangered breeds for preserving genetic diversity Presently, no cost effective and readily available method is available to identify and
differentiate pashmina from the adulterated products. The conventional physical and
Provide insurance against loss of a particular sire,
 Permit the transport of semen over long distances chemical tests used to identify the fibre will give similar results as the Pashmina and wool
fibre have similar quality attributes.

Adoption by the Commercial Farms
There are two techniques of AI for using frozen semen in sheep i.e. Laparoscopic AI and
Trans-cervical AI. Laparoscopic AI is not feasible and practicable in Indian field conditions as
it requires minor surgery. However, in an experiment we have achieved 44 % lambing after
laparoscopic AI with frozen semen. The world status of laparoscopic AI with frozen semen is
70-80% conception in sheep. The results of trans-cervical AI are not acceptable and ranging
from 4 to 40% lambing worldwide including our laboratory.
Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) based molecular technique has been developed to
distinguish Pashmina from wool. DNA is extracted and amplified using PCR from the
processed fabrics containing pashmina / adulterated products of sheep wool. This
technique can identify even 10% of Pashmina present in the adulterated products.
The technique is found useful to prevent adulteration of superfine wool/silk fibre with
pashmina fibre. The Institute is extending the facility to Department of Customs (Export),
New Delhi and analyzing their samples for confirmation of Pashmina fibre in export
consignments. Custom Department appreciated the services and it helps them to plead
their cases in legal tribunes

82

Page 48

Development of Pure Pashmina Yarn Using

PVA as Carrier Fibre
The PVA fibre in sliver form is blended with the Pashmina fibre in the proportion of 30:70
Pashmina, popularly known as
and allowed to undergo 5-6 passages in gill box for proper blending. The resultant sliver is
Cashmere is well known for its
then converted into roving on bobbiner. The roving is taken to modified Amber Charka /ring
fineness, warmth, softness, desirable
frame for spinning. The produced yarn is doubled to get the required strength which is then
aesthetic value, elegance and
used for weaving on handloom. Conventionally, The PVA from the fabric is removed by
timelessness in fashion. It is most
treatment with boiled water.
luxurious fibre which is softer and
costlier than superfine Merino of the Fabrics produced from Pashmina-PVA blended yarn are as good as traditional hand spun
same diameter. On account of small yarn made shawls in terms of their strength, handle and other performance properties.
availability of this specialty fibre, most
of it is utilized locally with the help of Adoption by the Artisans
specially designed manually operated
The developed process of Pashmina spinning is more productive and cost effective. It is
traditional charkha. The hand
adopted in woollen sector of Himachal Pradesh. Common Facility Centres established
spinning though unique requires
under the Central Wool Development Board (CWDB) at Mahaveer Woollen Mills,
dexterity and laborious. Some of
 industries have developed a process Sundernagar and Shikhar Handloom Cooperative Society also adopted this process. The
yarn spun by this process is more uniform and eco-friendly. It enhances productivity of
to spun 100% Pashmina yarn using machine by mixing with nylon as carrier fibre. However,
weaving and reduces the cost of production by 50%.
the removal of nylon requires concentrated hydrochloric acid treatment which is hazardous
and causes pollution.

In order to solve the problem, CSWRI, Avikanagar has developed a process in which PVA
(polyvinyl alcohol) fibre is used as carrier in place of nylon. The PVA fibre requires only hot
water treatment for removal from the fabric. In this process, Pashmina fibre is dehaired on
modified cotton card. The carded sliver of is passed through combing machine to remove
the short fibres. Then the sliver is subjected to 3-4 passages in gill box in order to parallelize
them.

84

Page 49

Fermented Probitioc Feed

The edible microorganisms, mainly thoroughly mixed and allowed fermentation in a thermo controlled BOD incubator
of bacteria (Lactic acid and non- at 25 to 30°C for 65 to 72 h.
lactic acid bacteria), yeast (dairy To preserve the yeast cell viability the content of bags were dried under shade (20 to
strains) and fungi origin are 26°C for 60 to 72 h) and the fermented product after drying should have dark brown
considered as probiotics and 4 6
color (Fig. 1) and it has live yeast cells of 10 to 10 per g.
produces beneficial effects on the
The dried fermented product is stored in a dry place at room temperature below
host. These live microorganisms
37°C and used for animal feeding as and when required.
when administered in adequate
amount confer a health benefit on
Findings and Application
the host by altering the microflora
of the digestive tract with induction
Dried fermented yeast product mixed with composite feed mixture or with concentrate
of beneficial effects of the gut ecology. Earlier antibiotics were used as feed additives to
mixture at 10 to 30 g per kg feed, and fed to growing young ruminant, especially lambs each
suppress the undesired intestinal microbes and as growth promoter. Animal Nutrition
day for 90 to 120 days, improved roughage intake (~8 to 10%) and growth performance (5 to
Division, CSWRI, Avikanagar came out with a user-friendly protocol for producing probiotic
 culture in substrate that is used as feed and thus facilitating its delivery as a part of feed
4 6
ingredients for the livestock, e.g. fermented feed containing viable yeast cells 10 to 10 per
g, which upon room temperature (25 °C) drying maintained yeast cell viability.
Preparation of Fermented Feed Probiotic
Wheat bran is moistened with water to have moisture content 65 to 70 %
8%), feed efficiency (by 3 to 9%) with a reduction of cost of feed inputs per kg live weight
gain (by 6 to 12%). Feeding of 30 to 50 g fermented probiotic feed twice in day controlled
food-born diarrhea and also reduced number and days of diarrhea in lambs. Therefore, the
dried yeast product can be used in animal feeding as nutritional supplement for organic
animal farming to produce safer food for human consumption with improved growth, feed
and economic efficiency.

2.5 to 3.0 kg wheat bran is placed in an autoclavable disposable bag (14" × 20"), and
sterilized in an autoclave (15-20 psi and 120-125°C for 20-30 min).

After cooling to room temperature, the content of bags were inoculated aseptically
with activated liquid culture produced in bulk at 2 to 3%, and the content of bags are

86

Page 50

Application of FecB genotyping test in marker Contributors

assisted selection programme in sheep
DNA test for identification of high fecundity (presence of the Booroola gene responsible for Superior germplasm of sheep L.L.L. Prince, S.S. Misra, Ashish C
multiple births) in Garole and Garole x Malpura sheep was developed. This test has been used Narula, S. Saha, A.S. Rajendiran
Artificial insemination in sheep with liquid chilled semen Davendra Kumar, Kalyan De and S
in screening of the prolific sheep in the breeding programme for enhancing the prolificacy of
Indigenous intra-vaginal sponges for oestrus induction and synchronization S.M.K. Naqvi and Davendra Kum
non-prolific sheep breeds of India. The DNA test for FecB gene has been successfully applied
Flock health technology for sheep flocks in semi-arid Rajasthan Division of Animal Health
as a marker assisted selection (MAS) of prolific animals at any stage of development.
Worm management programme for sheep flocks of Rajasthan Dhirendra Singh and C.P. Swarnka
Targeted selective treatment approach for management of haemonchosis in sheep C.P. Swarnkar and Dhirendra Sing
High prolificacy of Garole sheep is due to the presence of mutation in the Booroola
FROGIN: Software for forecasting gastrointestinal nemetodiasis in sheep of Rajasthan C.P. Swarnkar and Dhirendra Sing
fecundity (FecB) gene. This breed has been adapted at this Institute with the aim to
Pre- weaning lamb feeding for enhancing mutton production R.S. Bhatt, A. Sahoo and S.A. Kar
introduce the prolificacy into non-prolific Malpura and other sheep brreds. Garole x
Intensive lamb rearing for maximizing mutton production R.S. Bhatt, A. Sahoo and S.A. Kar
Malpura (GM), GMM, MGM, GMM x Patanwari crossbreds have been developed through Complete feed blocks for scarcity feeding O.H. Chaturvedi, R.S. Bhatt and A
FecB introgression programme. FecB mutation in Garole, Kendrapada, GM, GMM, MGM Supplementary feeding of sheep for growth, production and reproduction S.K. Sankhyan, A.K. Shinde, O.H
and GMM x Patanwari prolific strains has been identified and used DNA test for high Restructuring carcasses of cull ewes by nutritional manipulation R.S. Bhatt, A. Sahoo and S.A. Kar

fecundity (FecB) in sheep. Area-specific mineral mixture for sheep and goats A.K. Shinde and S.K. Sankhyan

Establishment of pasture for higher fodder production S.C. Sharma, L.R.Meena and Roop
 Broiler rabbit rearing for meat and fur skin A.S. Rajendiran

Angora rabbit rearing for wool production S.R. Sharma

Utilization of rabbit fur for making fashionable items S.R. Sharma

Aesthetic and durable carpet from indigenous wool and Its blends Ajay Kumar and A.S.M. Raja

Angora rabbit Hair – Bharat Merino wool blended shawls D.B. Shakyawar and A.S.M. Raja
Natural colours for wool and specialty hair fibre A.S.M. Raja, Ajay Kumar and D.B
Forced RFLP-PCR of FecB gene. M: molecular weight marker 50bp ladder, Lane 1-15: Garole x Malpura female
produce twin or more lambs High quality blankets from indigenous wool D.B. Shakyawar and Ajay Kumar

Development of woolen handicrafts from non- apparel grade wool Vinod Vishnu Kadam, A.S.M. Raj
Adoption and Future of Technology Value added mutton products Y.P. Gadekar and A.K. Shinde
Embryo transfer technique in sheep S.M.K. Naqvi, Davendra Kumar a
The FecBDNA test requires blood or tissue samples, which are difficult to transport from a long Ram semen freezing techniques Davendra Kumar and S.M.K. Naqv
distance or even across the country. DNA test has been developed in couples of wool follicles. Molecular technique for identification of wool and specialty hairs Rajiv Kumar, D.B. Shakyawar, A.
DNA test has been utilized for FecB introgression programme at this Institute and will be S.A. Wani, Amar Singh Meena, P.
Development of pure pashmina yarn using PVA as carrier fibre D.B. Shakyawar, A.S.M. Raja, S.A
applicable to Sheep Breeding Farms, farmer's community, NGOs or concerned agencies.
Fermented probiotic feed A. Sahoo and R.S. Bhatt

Application of FecB genotyping test in marker assisted selection programme in sheep S. Kumar and A.P. Kolte
88

Page 51
CENTRAL SHEEP AND WOOL RESEARCH INSTITUTE
(Indian Council of Agricultural Research)
AVIKANAGAR - 304 501 RAJASTHAN
Phone : 91-1437-225212, 220162 Fax : 91-1437-220163
e-mail : cswriavikanagar@yahoo.com
web : http :// www.cswri.res.in