Veterinary Research Institute

The Veterinary Research Institute, overseen by the Department of Animal Production and Health, stands as the sole national-level institution committed to conducting research and development for Sri Lanka's livestock sector. The institute started as a diagnostic laboratory in Colombo in 1911 and was institutionalized in 1967. The institute is involved in conducting research on animal health and livestock production, production of veterinary vaccines and biologicals, carrying out disease diagnostic, analytical and advisory services as its key functions. Veterinary Research Institute is also recognized as the national referral laboratory for diagnosis of several animal diseases.

Main Functions

Research & development in disciplines related to animal health and production
Production of veterinary vaccines and biologicals
Diagnosis of bacterial, viral, parasitic & fungal diseases in livestock, poultry and fish/aquatic animals including testing in pathology/histopathology
National Reference laboratory for diagnosis of brucellosis, leptospirosis in livestock
National repository of anti-microbial resistance (AMR) for animal health and focal point for AMR in terrestrial animals
Molecular biological testing for species identification of meat samples (Cervus/deer family, cattle, buffalo, swine, goat & dog)
Identification of A1 & A2 Milk producing cattle
Testing of import and export quarantine samples (feed, feed ingredients, live animals, animal products etc.)
Analysis of animal feed/ feed ingredients/ mineral mixtures/ mineral supplements/ blood
- Proximate composition (Moisture, Protein, Fat, Fiber, Ash & Sand)
- Gross energy
- Mineral composition (Calcium, Phosphorus, Magnesium, Copper, Cobalt & Manganese)
- Gross energy
- Total aflatoxin levels & B1, B2, G1, G2
Formulating least cost feed rations for livestock animals and poultry
Testing of milk & milk products for composition, keeping quality, adulterants, physical properties & microbiological quality
Analysis of soil (pH, salinity, electrical conductivity (EC), organic matter, texture and major plant nutrients)
Water analysis (pH, hardness, TDS, EC, salinity and nutrients)
Forage seed analysis (purity, germination and viability)
Health certification for fish and shrimp diseases for export facilitation
Surveillance activities
- Animal disease surveillance
- AMR national surveillance in livestock
- Foodborne pathogen surveillance in poultry
Supply of day-old local chicks for backyard poultry farming through Central Poultry Research Station, Karandagolla
Issue of forage specimens for educational purposes and research
Demonstrations and trainings related to animal health & production
Technical advice & guidance to stakeholders