DIMAPUR, FEBRUARY 3 (MExN): The annual Animal Welfare Forthnight, celebrated all over the country in the month of January has come to a close. 2014 is the golden jubilee year for the annual event. Nagaland also commemorated the event by conducting a series of activities aimed at generating awareness on animal welfare issues.
In Dimapur, the department of Veterinary & Animal Husbandry commemorated the two-week long event beginning January 14. It concluded on February 3. The valedictory function was held at the Deputy Commissioner’s Conference hall with animal rights activists and representatives from government departments in attendance. MLA and Advisor, NBDA, Dr. Longrineken was the chief guest. The Deputy Commissioner Dimapur and the Superintendent of Police were also in attendance.
According to the office of the District Veterinary and Animal Husbandry, the programme was organised to create a platform for animal rights activism by forming Animal Welfare Organisation and Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.
A veterinarian before plunging into politics, Dr. Longrineken, in his address stated that the attitude of people, Nagas in particular, towards animals has been changing. Commenting about his observation over the years, he said there was once a time when pet and livestock owners did not even want to spend cash for vaccines. But now, it is not so, he said. Recounting his experience as a vet and an animal rights activist, he described animal welfare activism as an “infectious” activity, and that which must be put to good use. “It is a job where you may not get anything in return... it is a job where you need to sacrifice but in the end, it is satisfying.”
Deputy Commissioner N. Hushili Sema called for active support and coordination between NGOs and the citizens for spreading the love of animals among Nagas. Stating that rearing animals is like taking care of children, the DC said animal welfare societies and activists should target the young to spread awareness on animal welfare, while adding that the church would be a good platform. She further called for concerted effort between animal welfare societies and veterinary professionals.
