Pelwatte Dairy-Animal Production Department to revolutionise dairy industry

Pelwatte Dairy Deputy General Manager Milk Procurement Susantha Malwatte and Manager Dairy Development Shantha Devapriya share the MoU with Animal Production and Health Department officials

Pelwatte Dairy Industries Limited (PDIL) has marked a significant milestone in Sri Lanka’s dairy sector by signing a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Animal Production and Health Department to conduct artificial insemination (AI) under its Dairy Development Programme. 
This collaborative effort aims to modernise dairy farming practices, enhance livestock genetics and boost dairy productivity across the nation.

AI has emerged as a vital tool for improving livestock genetics and increasing agricultural productivity in Sri Lanka. This practice involves the controlled transfer of semen from carefully selected bulls to female cows, with the goal of enhancing desirable traits such as milk production, disease resistance and overall robustness.

As a leader in the dairy industry, PDIL recognises the importance of leveraging advanced breeding techniques to benefit Sri Lanka’s agricultural landscape. Through this partnership with Animal Production and Health Department, PDIL is committed to providing farmers with improved and efficient access to AI services, thus empowering them to enhance the quality of their livestock and increase their overall productivity.

“Through our partnership with the Animal Production and Health Department, PDIL is proud to spearhead the adoption of advanced breeding techniques in Sri Lanka’s dairy industry. This collaboration signifies our unwavering commitment to empowering farmers, enhancing livestock genetics and driving sustainable agricultural practices. Together, we are paving the way for a brighter future for dairy farming in Sri Lanka,” said PDIL Managing Director Akmal Wickramanayake. 

PDIL is poised to implement this initiative with the onboarding of four AI technicians from May 1, 2024, reinforcing its commitment to driving positive change in the dairy industry. The company acknowledges the invaluable support of Animal Production and Health Department officials, including Director General Dr. Hemali Kothalawala and Animal Breeding Unit Head Dr. Ekanayake, in making this partnership a reality.