Assessment of NC synch and other hormonal protocols for oestrus synchronization and fertility enhancement in Sirohi does

The Sirohi goat, a dual-purpose breed native to Rajasthan, India, faces challenges in reproductive efficiency due to seasonal breeding and management constraints. This study evaluated the efficacy of four oestrus synchronization protocols—GnRH-PGF2α-GnRH, 7-day vaginal sponge plus GnRH, 11-day vaginal sponge plus GnRH and North Carolina State University Sync (NC Sync) protocol on reproductive performance, vaginal cytology, serum progesterone profiles and conception rates following artificial insemination with frozen semen in Sirohi does. Twenty-four healthy, non-pregnant goats were allocated equally into four treatment groups. Oestrus response, vaginal cytology and serum progesterone concentrations were monitored before, during and after hormonal treatments. The NC Synch protocol achieved the highest oestrus detection (100%) and conception rate (67%), significantly outperforming the othergroups. Vaginal cytology revealed increased cornified superficial cells at 24–48 hours post-treatment, correlating with optimal breeding time. Progesterone levels increased significantly during treatment in vaginal sponge groups, indicating enhanced luteal activity, while other protocols showed gradual declines. These results demonstrated that the NC Synch protocol offered superior synchronization and fertility outcome in Sirohi goats, providing a viable strategy to improve reproductive efficiency and genetic advancement through timed artificial insemination.