LUDHIANA, Feb 10: ``The time has come when we have to review our culling system so as to give proper attention to better reproductive animals. And before reviewing this, we have to cross the sentimental block in matters of slaughter of unproductive and non-profitable cattle.''Dr M.L.Madan, former deputy director general, Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), New Delhi said this in an exclusive chat with ENS. Madan who retired from his services yesterday, was here in the city to attend the XVth annual convention and national symposium on biotechniques in optimising fertilisation in farm animals at Punjab Agricultural University campus.Further advocating the concept of unproductive cattle slaughter, Madan asserted that today infertile animals have increased in number and have become a major cause of economic bankruptcy and frustration. ``Since no production system is efficient until the community adopts the weeding culture, so today I would suggest that scientists and policy-makers join hands to approve the unavoidable culling and slaughter of unproductive animals,'' Madan said.In his first interview after retirement, Madan said since agriculture is no more a profitable business these days, the Indian farmers must shift to livestock production which is the only profitable option available. ``There are no equals to the buffalo breeds in India as our country with 53.3 per cent of the world buffalo population is in a commanding position to dominate the world beef market,'' added Madan.Later, in his inaugural address at the convention, he further emphasised that veterinarians must have skills in pregnancy diagnosis and in solving problems related to delivery of new-born calves. He also advocated a shift in emphasis to overall health of animals rather than isolated discussion on different subjects.Dr G S Kalkat, Vice-Chancellor, PAU in his presidential address suggested that the scientists should come out with a concrete solution for the systematic culling of unproductive animals which are putting a great burden on the already scarce resources. He also suggested that specific objectives be set up in order to achieve the overall aim of improving the production efficiency of livestock through improved health care, proper nutrition, scientific reproductive techniques like biotechnology and efficient management. He asserted that the nation needed a strong dose of discipline to keep it from lagging behind in the present era of global competition.Earlier, Dr S.N.Maurya, secretary, ISSAR highlighted the achievements of the society during 22 years of its existence. Dr Mehar Singh, president, ISSAR welcomed the delegates.
