In a strategic move to enhance livestock development in the Northeast, the ICAR-National Research Centre on Mithun (ICAR-NRCM) and the Department of Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services (AH&VS), Nagaland, have reaffirmed their commitment to the sustainable development of Mithun, a semi-domesticated bovine species central to the tribal culture and economy of Nagaland.
The renewed collaboration aims to advance scientific research, promote breeding programs, and support community-based conservation of Mithun, often referred to as the “cattle of the mountains.” The partnership comes at a crucial time when traditional Mithun rearing practices are under pressure from environmental degradation, changing land-use patterns, and socio-economic challenges.
Understanding Mithun: The Pride of Nagaland
Mithun (Bos frontalis) is a unique bovine species found primarily in the hilly regions of Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, and Mizoram. For many tribal communities, Mithun symbolizes wealth, status, and cultural identity. It plays a crucial role in traditional ceremonies, social exchanges, and sustainable forest-based livelihoods.
However, Mithun rearing is mostly non-commercial and heavily dependent on forest ecosystems. As deforestation and land conflicts increase, the need for organized and sustainable Mithun development becomes more urgent.
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ICAR-NRCM and AH&VS: A Collaborative Framework
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between ICAR-NRCM and AH&VS Nagaland is designed to integrate scientific research with grassroots livestock development. The agreement focuses on:
- Breeding and genetic improvement of Mithun to enhance productivity and adaptability.
- Capacity building of farmers, veterinary officers, and field workers through training and extension services.
- Conservation and management of forest-based Mithun farming systems using sustainable grazing practices.
- Disease control and healthcare management to improve herd health and reduce mortality.
- Promotion of Mithun as a premium organic meat source to tap into niche markets.
Officials from both institutions emphasized that this collaboration will also support the Nagaland State Mithun Policy, which aims to preserve and promote Mithun husbandry as a key component of rural development.
A Boost for Tribal Livelihoods and Ecological Balance
The Mithun development initiative is not just a scientific endeavor but a socio-economic intervention that can uplift rural and tribal livelihoods. By improving the economic value of Mithun, the project seeks to create income-generating opportunities for tribal communities while ensuring that the traditional ecological knowledge associated with Mithun rearing is preserved.
Incorporating sustainable forest management practices will also ensure that Mithun rearing does not lead to overgrazing or habitat destruction. This approach supports both biodiversity conservation and livelihood sustainability, aligning with national goals for eco-friendly livestock farming.
Government Support and Policy Alignment
The partnership aligns with broader government initiatives such as the National Livestock Mission and Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India), which emphasize indigenous livestock development, entrepreneurship, and rural employment. The collaboration is expected to feed into future policies aimed at making livestock farming more resilient to climate change and market fluctuations.
According to Dr. Mihir Sarkar, Director of ICAR-NRCM, “This partnership reaffirms our mission to bring science to the field. Mithun is a genetically superior and culturally significant animal, and our goal is to integrate modern research with indigenous practices for sustainable outcomes.”
Training, Awareness, and Community Engagement
An important component of the initiative is community engagement. The two organizations plan to conduct awareness campaigns, farmer-scientist interactions, and on-site demonstrations in Mithun-rearing villages. These sessions will educate farmers on improved breeding, nutrition, disease control, and environmental practices.
Such efforts will not only increase Mithun productivity but also empower tribal youth and women to become key stakeholders in livestock development, thereby supporting inclusive growth in the region.
A Milestone for Mithun and the Northeast
The collaboration between ICAR-NRCM and Nagaland’s AH&VS marks a major step forward in the scientific, cultural, and economic integration of Mithun development. By combining traditional knowledge with cutting-edge research, this initiative has the potential to transform Mithun farming into a sustainable livelihood model for the tribal communities of Nagaland and beyond.
As Northeast India looks to preserve its unique biodiversity and heritage, sustainable Mithun development will be a cornerstone of inclusive and eco-friendly rural progress.
