RAWALPINDI, Oct 22 (APP):The National Center for Livestock Breeding, Genetics and Genomics (NCLBG&G), Pir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture University Rawalpindi (PMAS-AAUR), organized a national symposium titled “Transforming Livestock Through Genomics” at NCLBG&G, Rawat.
The symposium brought together participants from all provinces of Pakistan to discuss the role of modern genomic technologies in livestock breeding, genetic improvement, productivity enhancement and sustainable development of the livestock sector.
Addressing as the Chief Guest, Vice Chancellor PMAS-AAUR, Prof. Dr. Qamar-uz-Zaman appreciated Prof. Ahsan Iqbal, Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives, for his continued support for the establishment and development of NCLBG&G.
He emphasized that the center’s state-of-the-art laboratories, advanced equipment and modern genomic technologies offered significant opportunities to improve livestock breeds, enhance productivity and strengthen scientific research in Pakistan.
The Vice Chancellor highlighted Pakistan’s vast livestock potential and stressed the importance of translating research findings into practical solutions for farmers and livestock producers. He noted that genetic improvement of local breeds could increase milk production and improve the quality and availability of dairy products, contributing to national food security, higher farmers’ incomes and increased revenue generation.
A key highlight of the symposium was the introduction of genomic selection technology in Pakistan, aimed at supporting more accurate livestock breeding decisions and accelerating genetic improvement. The event also marked the first national symposium organized by NCLBG&G, providing a national platform for researchers, scientists, livestock experts and stakeholders from across the country to exchange knowledge and explore collaborative opportunities.
Earlier, Dr. Ghulam Bilal, Central Project Director of NCLBG&G, briefed the participants on the centre’s mandate and activities.
He highlighted that the National Center operates through seven sub-centres across Pakistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), supporting research and development in livestock breeding, genetics and genomics.
An exhibition was organized alongside the symposium, featuring research and technical stalls showcasing modern agricultural and livestock technologies. Technical sessions and consultative meetings with stakeholders and industry partners provided opportunities for expert discussions, knowledge sharing and the identification of areas for collaborative research and innovation.
On the occasion, World Egg Day was also celebrated, with the Institute of Animal Sciences highlighting the importance of eggs as a nutritious food source and their contribution to food security, public awareness and the development of the poultry sector.
Source: APP (Associated Press of Pakistan)
