HT Correspondent
DIMAPUR, May 2: The Indian Council of Agricultural Research-National Research Centre on Mithun (ICAR-NRCM) and Nagaland’s animal husbandry & veterinary services (AH&VS) department at a coordination meeting expressed a shared commitment to strengthen collaboration and explore joint initiatives and programmes, including resource-sharing and capacity building, for research-driven development of Mithun and indigenous cattle and other livestock farming practices in the state.
This meeting, held at AH&VS directorate in Kohima on Wednesday, marked a significant step toward integrated livestock development in Nagaland, with the potential to enhance rural incomes, preserve indigenous breeds, and contribute to sustainable agricultural practices.
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Senior officials from the directorate and a team of nine scientists from ICAR-NRC Mithun, Jharnapani, led by its director Dr Girish Patel attended the meeting.
Dr BM Sunep, head of AH&VS department, emphasised the ecological and agricultural importance of promoting the indigenous Thotho cattle breed of Nagaland.
He highlighted the role of local grazing practices in maintaining soil fertility and sustaining the local soil microflora.
Sunep also called for a paradigm shift in farmers’ attitudes towards cattle rearing, urging greater focus not just on milk production but also on meat to maximize the economic potential of livestock farming in the state.
During the meeting, Patel gave a comprehensive PowerPoint presentation on the current status of Mithun rearing across the north eastern region, with a special focus on Nagaland.
He underlined the critical role Mithun plays in the tribal livelihoods, culture, and agro-ecology of the region.
He also emphasised the importance of preservation and propagation of Thotho cattle and the initiation of research on semen collection and artificial insemination of the animals.
