RAWALPINDI: Pir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture University Rawalpindi (PMAS-AAUR), through the National Center for Livestock Breeding, Genetics and Genomics (NCLBG&G), organised a national symposium titled “Transforming Livestock Through Genomics” at NCLBG&G, Rawat, to highlight the role of modern genomic technologies in the livestock sector.
The symposium was attended by participants from all provinces of Pakistan and focused on livestock breeding, genetic improvement, productivity enhancement and sustainable development of the livestock sector.
PMAS-AAUR Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Qamar-uz-Zaman attended the event as chief guest. Addressing the symposium, he appreciated Prof Ahsan Iqbal, Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives, for his continued support for the establishment and development of NCLBG&G.
The Vice Chancellor said the centre’s state-of-the-art laboratories, advanced equipment and modern genomic technologies offered significant opportunities to improve livestock breeds, enhance productivity and strengthen scientific research in Pakistan.
He highlighted the vast potential of Pakistan’s livestock sector and stressed the need to translate research findings into practical solutions for farmers and livestock producers. He said genetic improvement of local breeds could help increase milk production and improve the quality and availability of dairy products, contributing to national food security, higher farmers’ incomes and increased revenue generation.
A key feature of the symposium was the introduction of genomic selection technology in Pakistan, aimed at supporting more accurate livestock breeding decisions and accelerating genetic improvement.
The event also marked the first national symposium organised by NCLBG&G, providing a national platform for researchers, scientists, livestock experts and stakeholders from across the country to exchange knowledge and explore opportunities for collaboration.
Earlier, NCLBG&G Central Project Director Dr Ghulam Bilal briefed the participants on the centre’s mandate and activities. He said the National Center operates through seven sub-centres across Pakistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir, supporting research and development in livestock breeding, genetics and genomics.
An exhibition was also arranged alongside the symposium, featuring research and technical stalls showcasing modern agricultural and livestock technologies. Technical sessions and consultative meetings with stakeholders and industry partners provided opportunities for expert discussions, knowledge sharing and identification of areas for collaborative research and innovation.
On the occasion, World Egg Day was also observed, with the Institute of Animal Sciences highlighting the importance of eggs as a nutritious food source and their contribution to food security, public awareness and the development of the poultry sector.
