Field Visit Report

Field Visit Report

Date: 16th January 2025
Location: National Livestock Development Board (NLDB), Melsiripura
Purpose: An in-depth analysis of the Sri Lankan dairy industry and strategies to increase milk production through artificial insemination  

Introduction

The research team from the Research and Innovation Division of KIU visited the National Livestock Development Board (NLDB) in Melsiripura to investigate the current state of the Sri Lankan dairy industry. The study aimed to identify methods to enhance milk production by improving and implementing artificial insemination techniques. The visit was conducted under the guidance of Prof. Anuradhi Hapuarachchi, Director of the Research and Innovation Division at KIU.

WhatsApp Image 2025-01-17 at 10.22.54

Details of the Visit

The team arrived at the NLDB facility at approximately 11:00 AM. During the visit, the team engaged with several key resource personnel, including:

 

Mr.Wimalasooriya - Assistant Farm Manager
Mr.Chinthaka - Assistant (contract) Farm Manager
Mr.Wijerathna - AI Technician
Discussion with veterinary surgeon

Investigative Areas

  1. Herd Size and Types; Observed the herd composition, including breed types such as Jersey, Friesian, and crossbreeds. Discussed herd management practices, including categorization based on age, lactation stage, and breeding status.
  2. Nutrition Management; Evaluated the feeding schedule and nutritional inputs provided to the cattle. Discussed about the integration of feed supplements used in order to enhance milk yield and cattle health.
  3. Stress Management; Examined methods to minimize stress in cattle, such as maintaining proper shelter, ventilation, and regular health check-ups. Discussed the impact of stress on milk production and reproduction.
  4. Field Management; Investigated pasture rotation practices and the use of land for optimal grazing. Evaluated waste management systems, including manure utilization for biogas and organic fertilizer.
  5. Reproduction and Artificial Insemination; Assessed the artificial insemination procedures, focusing on:
    1. Semen selection and storage
    2. Timing of insemination
    3. Challenges such as low conception rates and skill shortages among technicians
  6. Challenges and Improvements; Discussed constraints such as limited access to advanced technologies, high costs of feed, and inadequate veterinary support.
  7. Dairy Production Details; Recorded daily milk production averages, lactation cycles, and milk quality parameters. Analyzed data on the influence of breed and nutrition on yield and quality.

Sample Collection

To conduct a detailed analysis, the team collected the following samples for proximate analysis:

  • Water: To evaluate its quality for cattle consumption
  • Milk: For testing nutritional content and quality
  • Feed Samples:
    • Silage (Guinea
      grass and sorghum)
    • Forage
    • Concentrates such as commercially available feed (Mahaweli feed), beer pulp, and
      corn powder

Concluding Remarks

The field visit provided valuable insights into the current practices, challenges, and potential areas for improvement in the Sri Lankan dairy industry. The data and samples collected will support the ongoing research to develop actionable strategies for increasing milk production through enhanced artificial insemination and better farm management practices.

This investigation highlights the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration and evidence-based interventions to advance the dairy sector and contribute to national food security goals.

Prepared by:
Ms. Fabiola Fernando (Junior Research Scientist)
Research and Innovation Division, KIU