Application of Path Analysis for Contribution of Reproductive Traits in Lactation Milk Yield of Half Breed Cattle

The use of the path coefficient analysis methodology in Half Breed cattle revealed that, the reproductive trait-Lactation Length (LL) had appreciable effect in total Lactation Milk Yield (LMY). Correlation of LL with total LMY was highly significant ranges from 0.267 to 0.522. Direct effect of LL and indirect effects of SP and CI through LL were positive and higherin all lactations. The direct per cent contribution of LL in LMYwas 13.49 to 29.25%. However, SP and CI showed negligibledirect contribution in LMY upto 3 rd lactation and for 4th to 6th lactation ranged from 4.887 to 14.276 and 5.189 to 22.903 in LMY. AFC showed significant and negative correlation with LMY. Its direct effect also negative and indirect effects through other traits were negligible in LMY.That indicates early age of first calving increases the LMY in different lactations. Therefore, it is suggested that more emphasis may be given on these traits (AFC, SP, CL and LL) for future breeding programme.