SLDB Holds 37th Meeting, Cuts Semen Cost, Boosts Indigenous Cattle Development

The Sikkim Livestock Development Board (SLDB) held its 37th Board Meeting today under the chairmanship of Dr. Sharman Rai, Secretary of Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services (AH&VS) cum Chairman of SLDB. The session, held in Gangtok, focused on strengthening livestock initiatives in the state, especially concerning indigenous cattle breeds.

The meeting saw participation from several key officials, including Principal Directors Dr. A. Thapa, Dr. Sandeep Gurung, Dr. Sonam P. Bhutia, and Dr. KT Bhutia; Directors Dr. Sanjay M. Gazmer and Dr. Durga P. Pradhan; Additional Director Dr. P.T. Bhutia; and Dr. Pratik Sharma, CEO of SLDB, who also served as the Member Secretary.

A major highlight of the meeting was the Board’s approval to reduce the cost of sex-sorted semen from ₹150 to ₹50—a farmer-centric decision aimed at boosting breed improvement across the state. The move is expected to significantly benefit Sikkimese livestock farmers and encourage the adoption of modern breeding techniques.

The Board also discussed the implementation of the Rashtriya Gokul Mission in Sikkim, emphasizing the need for genetic improvement of indigenous cattle. Plans for intensive training programs for farmers and AI technicians were finalized to support this initiative.

The session concluded with a vote of thanks from CEO Dr. Pratik Sharma, reaffirming the Board’s commitment to sustainable livestock development and enhancing the livelihoods of farmers across Sikkim.