In the district of Sirsa (Haryana), the Intensive Cattle Development Project (ICDP) under the Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying plays a key role in supporting dairy and cattle farmers. Since high productivity in milk and cattle depends on good breeding, health and proper management, this department offers a set of important services to help farmers improve their herd and increase income.
1. Breeding and artificial insemination support
One of the main services is to promote improved breeds of cows and buffaloes. Through the ICDP in Sirsa, farmers can access artificial insemination (A.I.) services using quality frozen semen. This helps upgrade local cattle to more productive breeds, increasing milk yield and ensuring better genetics. The department also helps with registration of animals and monitoring of breeding programs.
2. Health and disease-control services
Good health of cows and buffaloes is vital. The project supports veterinary check-ups, vaccinations and disease control efforts. If animals fall sick, the department’s veterinary services can intervene to diagnose and treat. This safeguards your herd and reduces losses from disease and poor reproduction.
3. Technical guidance and training
Many farmers benefit when they receive guidance on how to manage their cattle — from proper feed and fodder, housing, to hygiene and milking practices. The ICDP arranges training sessions and advisory visits by veterinary or livestock officers in Sirsa, helping farmers apply modern practices in everyday cattle management.
4. Incentive schemes for indigenous breeds
The Department implements schemes to conserve and develop indigenous cow and buffalo breeds. Under these schemes, if you keep recognised native breeds (for example indigenous cows or the famed Murrah buffalo breed) with good records, you become eligible for incentives or support. Through the ICDP office in Sirsa you can find out about such schemes and apply. These help preserve local breeds and also improve your earnings.
5. Record-keeping and counselling for farmers
The ICDP office manages registration of animals, tracking of milk yield and breeding history. This record-keeping helps farmers claim benefits, improves traceability and guides selective breeding decisions. The staff in Sirsa can help you maintain these records, answer your questions and ensure you are eligible for various supports.
6. Promotion of feed, fodder and shed improvements
To maximise productivity, proper feed and fodder are key. While not always directly done by ICDP, the department coordinates with other agencies to promote better fodder production, balanced cattle rations and improved sheds/housing for cattle. Through ICDP’s guidance you may learn how to set up better cattle housing or switch to feed practices that boost yields.
In short: If you are a cattle or buffalo owner in Sirsa district, the Intensive Cattle Development Project office is your key contact for improved breed services, health support, training, access to incentive schemes for good breeds, and expert advice on cattle management. By using these services, you can raise the productivity of your herd, get better returns from milk or calves, and manage risks of disease or low yields. Always visit the ICDP office in your area, talk to the veterinary officers, and ask about the latest schemes for which your animals (especially if they are indigenous or hybrid) may be eligible.
Use the ICDP services not just when you face a problem, but proactively — start new healthy animals, maintain good records, and you’ll benefit over the long term.
