DIMAPUR, April 12 (MExN): The ICAR-National Research Centre on Mithun, Medziphema on Sunday issued an advisory for Mithun farmers during COVID 19 lockdown urging them to take various measures while carrying out farm operations.
The Mithun farmers have been asked to keep soap, bucket of water and hand sanitizers at the entrance of the Mithun shed and ensure that masks and hand washing with soap at regular intervals is done before handling any animal.
They have also been asked to maintain proper hygiene in Mithun sheds and sanitize the same at regular intervals. The advisory suggested that farmers supplement mineral mixture @40-50 g/day/adult Mithun to maintain productivity.
Herd men have been advised to maintain social distancing while collecting fodder and prevent the animals from going out of range. Mithun should be kept separated from other types of animals in free range, it said and suggested that fencing be carried out to prevent the animals from going out of range.
The advisory also suggested that farmers restrict visits to Mithun lick centres to just two persons a day and ensure that pregnant animals and calves are protected from predators.
Water sources in ranges for Mithun may be checked during the lean season, it added.
Meanwhile, it also advised that a distance of 3-4 feet be maintained among farmers while loading/unloading of feeds in organized Mithun farms, during rest or taking of meals etc. All transport vehicles, gunny bags or other packaging material should also be sanitized, it said.
