BAZARAK (SW) – Livestock farmers in the remote districts of Panjshir say they are in desperate need for training in modern animal husbandry practices, particularly artificial insemination, to improve the productivity of their herds.
Farmers report that traditional breeding methods have resulted in lower dairy production and less productive livestock. They are unfamiliar with standard animal husbandry techniques, including artificial insemination, which could enhance their cattle reproduction.
Gul Mir, a livestock farmer in the Abshar district, explained that due to a lack of knowledge about modern methods, his cattle are not producing well. “Our cattle are of the Nuristani breed. They are not suitable for artificial insemination. Nuristani cattle have smaller offspring and lower milk yield. We have not been educated about modern cattle farming practices,” he said.
Sayed Shah, a farmer from the Dara district, noted that the lack of awareness about standard practices has resulted in unsatisfactory results in livestock farming. “If we could receive guidance on which breeds perform well and how to use them, it would help us improve our results and advance our work,” he added.
These farmers are urging the Panjshir Directorate of Agriculture, Irrigation, and Livestock to provide training in modern animal husbandry methods, especially artificial insemination.
Fazlullah Dewbandi, head of the directorate, said that efforts are underway to educate farmers about modern breeding techniques, including artificial insemination. He clarified, “Dairy cattle are typically bred through natural mating, with about 115 per cent being bred through artificial insemination. While the facilities for artificial insemination are available, there is little interest among the people.”
Multan Zarawer, a livestock expert, emphasized that training in standard practices, particularly artificial insemination, would significantly increase farmers’ income and dairy production. “Artificial insemination is very beneficial for improving breed quality, increasing production, and controlling animal diseases. Farmers in Panjshir lack knowledge about this method. When artificial insemination is used, it is crucial to provide good feed to ensure healthy offspring,” he said.
According to the Panjshir Directorate of Agriculture, Irrigation, and Livestock, over 70 per cent of the province’s residents are involved in livestock farming, which fulfills both their dietary and non-dietary needs.
