University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences (UVAS) Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dr Talat Naseer Pasha, has called for using molecular and population genetics techniques for the improvement of livestock sector in Pakistan. He was addressing the inaugural ceremony of a two-day conference on “The improvement of livestock sector in Pakistan through combined approach of molecular and population genetics” organised by the Department of Livestock Production of the UVAS here Tuesday.
Professor Pasha said that development of livestock sector is very important and good genetics can achieve the food of high biological value for our generation. He said that many institutions have been working on genetics improvement for decades but still a long time is there to achieve the desired goals. He informed the participants that Afghanistan, Central Asian States, Saudi Arabia and Middle East countries have a potential market for our livestock products but there is need to increase the productivity of our animals by using latest genetics techniques.
“This conference will provide a platform to researchers, scientists and academicians to share their knowledge and expertise to formulate a joint strategy for the improvement of animal productivity,” he added. Chief guest Professor Dr AR Shakoori from the Punjab University emphasised on the need to increase per animal productivity to combat the challenges of global market. He said that molecular biology techniques scan the animals at DNA level and population genetics helps in selection of individuals. He appreciated the role of the UVAS in arranging such useful conferences for researchers that would be beneficial for dwindling economy.
The principal organiser of the event, Professor Dr Masroor Elhai Baber explained the objectives of the conference as to discuss, train and update the participants with latest trends in animal genetics as well as to promote the combined use of molecular and population genetics in Pakistan. Dean Faculty of Animal Production and Technology Professor Dr Abullah also spoke on the occasion.
Academicians, researchers and livestock professional from all the four provinces are participating in the conference, which comprises technical session on various aspects of use of molecular and population genetics to increase the animal production. Dr Ikhide G Imumorin from the Cornell University, USA, is among the resource persons of the conference.
