Dimapur, Oct 20 (MExN): The Veterinary & Animal Husbandary department, Dimapur organized a district/ block level awareness programme on control of economically important disease of livestock and poultry workshop on meat hygiene (under ASCAD) at the office of the Deputy Director, Vety. & A.H, Burma Camp, Dimapur today.
Bei-u Angami, ADC, Dimapur graced the programme as the chief guest while Savi Liegise, President, Naga Council Dimapur as the guest of honor. Representatives and officials from different sections of the society attended the programme. Participants included members from Dimapur Town Council, Chumukedima Town Council representatives from villages, NGOs and civil societies. The inaugural programme in the morning was chaired by Dr. Kevesiei Chakhesang.
Speaking at the occasion, the chief guest assured that the district administration was willing to cooperate with any steps to tackle livestock diseases and meat hygiene for public heath and well-being. He said that economy starts at villages which comprise 80% of the population in Nagaland. “The rural sections should initially understand the importance of livestock and improve its rearing”, said the chief guest. He also encouraged the participants to analyze ones capabilities to practice in a systematic way and progress with dedication, interest and hardwork. “Livestock marketing facilities in Nagaland is unlimited”, said Bei-u while adding that Nagas carve for meat which is the reason for a good livestock marketing.
While addressing the gathering, the guest of honor, Savi Liegise appreciated the efforts made by the department to convene such programme and workshop. He stressed on the concept of ‘health is wealth’ and explained its importance. He urged the representatives from the villagers to spread the message and ideas that were imparted at the awareness programme.
Further, the Naga Council President encouraged the department to propose its needful agendas to the Government, failing which the department could approach the public.
Dr. Kashepu Sumi while giving the keynote address stressed on the awareness of animal diseases and the importance of livestock as an integral part of the society.
He mentioned that in other European countries, livestock were reared with utter precautions and technologies however, in Nagaland; livestock are randomly reared without any technological facilities. He explained the different harmful diseases of animals and birds which infects the humans through many ways.
He further said that the human risks are at alert due to the alarming increase of the harmful diseases.
He also said that unorganized slaughter houses have hampered the meat inspection plan which was ordered by the Government. “The department is trying its best to tackle the meat issue however to do so, we need the cooperation from all sections of the society,” said Dr. Sumi.
In the remaining two sessions, resource persons exhorted the participants with different topics relating to control of important diseases of livestock disease and its public health importance. Dr. Sunep Imchen, Farm Manager, H.U, Dimapur deliberated on livestock and poultry farming for augmentation of rural economy while Dr. imomanen Tzudir, VAS, Chumukedima, spoke on the impact and control of animal diseases and also the genral approach towards disease control.
In the second session, Dr. Inato Jimomi initiated the workshop on public health hazards due to animal diseases while Dr. Lanu Jamir stressed on the importance and implementation of meat inspection. These were followed by interactions with the participants in depth.
