NDDB Dairy Services (NDS), a wholly-owned subsidiary of the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the University of Edinburgh to strengthen collaboration in advanced bovine genetics, research, innovation and capacity building for the dairy sector.
The MoU was signed in the presence of Dr Meenesh Shah, Chairman, NDDB and NDS. The agreement was formally inked by Prof. Bruce Whitelaw, Professor of Animal Biotechnology and Co-Director (Innovation Lead), GBU–UoE Partnership, University of Edinburgh, and Dr C. P. Devanand, Managing Director, NDDB Dairy Services. Prof. Peter Doerner, Personal Chair of Applied Biology, School of Biological Sciences, Centre for Engineering Biology, and Dr Paresh Patel, Director – Innovation and Industry Engagement, UoE–GBU Partnership, along with senior officials from NDDB and NDS, were present on the occasion.
The MoU establishes a structured framework for long-term research collaboration with a focus on next-generation breeding strategies, application of genomics, advanced reproductive technologies and the development of disease-resistant cattle. The partnership aims to translate cutting-edge scientific research into scalable, field-level solutions aligned with India’s ongoing genetic improvement programmes.
Under the agreement, both institutions will work closely to integrate advanced biotechnology tools into India’s cooperative dairy ecosystem. The collaboration is expected to support knowledge exchange, joint research initiatives and training programmes to build skilled human resources capable of addressing emerging challenges in the dairy sector.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Meenesh Shah said NDDB and its subsidiaries look forward to deepening engagement with globally reputed academic institutions such as the University of Edinburgh. He emphasised that international university partnerships are crucial for strengthening technical capabilities and embedding advanced science into India’s dairy development initiatives.
Dr Shah noted that NDDB’s interventions across the dairy value chain, including disease control, advanced breeding programmes, genomic selection and sustainability initiatives, are designed to enhance animal health, improve productivity and increase farmers’ incomes. He expressed confidence that the new alliance would further accelerate innovation and reinforce India’s genetic improvement efforts.
The collaboration marks a significant step in leveraging global expertise to support India’s cooperative dairy movement, ensuring that scientific advancements translate into tangible benefits for dairy farmers and contribute to long-term sectoral growth.
