Nearly six years after its initial passing, the Tamil Nadu Bovine Breeding Act has officially come into force—bringing a sweeping transformation in how cattle breeding is regulated across the state.
Under the new law, registration of bulls is now mandatory even for natural mating, including those used in Jallikattu. Bulls must be registered on the government portal and certified for breeding soundness by a licensed veterinarian before they can be used for reproduction.
✅ Key Provisions Introduced:
- Licensing of private companies to carry out artificial insemination (AI)
- Registration of semen stations with the Tamil Nadu Bovine Breeding Authority
- Mandatory breeding soundness certification for bulls
- Permission for NGOs, private firms, and cooperatives to operate frozen semen production and AI services
- AI services are no longer restricted to government agencies
The Act empowers private players to participate in AI services, a domain historically managed solely by government bodies. This liberalisation could significantly boost dairy productivity, breed quality, and genetic innovation in Tamil Nadu’s stock sector.
🧪 A Shift Toward Scientific Breeding and Compliance
Private AI service providers are required to:
- Obtain a license from the Tamil Nadu Bovine Breeding Authority
- Pay an application fee of ₹1 lakh
- Use only certified bulls for semen production and AI services
- Follow stringent reporting and documentation standards
Earlier proposals for steep penalties (₹50,000) on bull owners violating the breeding rules have been dropped, easing compliance concerns among farmers.
📟 Tamil Nadu Bovine Breeding Act – Policy Snapshot
| Policy Element | Details |
|---|---|
| Act Enacted & Rules | Bovine Breeding Act (2019), Rules (2025) are now active |
| Bull Requirement | Mandatory registration + veterinary fitness certification |
| Private Sector Role | Permitted to operate AI and semen stations under license |
| Licensing Authority | Tamil Nadu Bovine Breeding Authority |
| Application Fee | ₹1 lakh per registration |
| Provisions Dropped | ₹50,000 fine, unannounced inspections |
| Natural Breeding Regulation | Encouraged only for indigenous breeds |
This policy aims to regulate cattle breeding, improve milk productivity, preserve native breeds, and modernise reproductive services. It balances veterinary compliance with greater stakeholder participation.
🚜 FarmerFarmers’ and Future Implications
A section of dairy farmers has expressed concern over potential cost hikes, especially for AI services.
However, industry experts argue that regulated participation by private players could lead to better service quality, wider access, and faster delivery of genetic material in rural regions.
As the demand for high-yielding cattle increases, Tamil Nadu could serve as a model for other Indian states looking to modernise their dairy sector while maintaining quality and ethical standards.
