A New Milestone in Livestock Health
Indian Immunologicals Limited (IIL), in collaboration with the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), has rolled out Raksha-IBR, the country’s first DIVA (Differentiating Infected from Vaccinated Animals) vaccine to combat Infectious Bovine Rhinotracheitis (IBR). The viral disease, caused by Bovine Herpes Virus-1, spreads rapidly through aerosols and contaminated semen, leading to infertility, abortions, respiratory infections, and reduced milk yields.
According to official estimates, more than 32% of India’s bovine population carries the infection, costing the dairy sector nearly ₹18,000 crore annually.
How Raksha-IBR Stands Apart
Unlike conventional vaccines, Raksha-IBR uses a gE-deleted marker gene that allows authorities to distinguish between infected and vaccinated animals. This scientific precision strengthens national disease control and eradication programmes.
Dr K. Anand Kumar, Managing Director of IIL, highlighted that the vaccine not only protects cattle but also secures the genetic progress achieved through breeding programmes, which otherwise face setbacks from reproductive losses.
Transforming Dairy Economics
The introduction of Raksha-IBR is expected to stabilise milk production and improve reproductive efficiency in cattle, thereby ensuring higher income security for farmers. By limiting productivity losses, it also contributes to India’s broader dairy growth strategy.
Experts believe that widespread adoption of this vaccine could set the stage for cleaner herds, improved traceability, and stronger export potential for Indian dairy products.
