Chizokho Vero
Kohima | November 8
In a major boost to the development of indigenous livestock as a gainful economic activity in Nagaland, a Comprehensive Rural Extension Services Programme (CRESP) has been launched here today by the Department of Veterinary and Animal Husbandry.
“The extension services of the department have been vitalized to disseminate technical skills and knowledge building to the farmers for upgradation of knowledge and skill,” said Minister for Home, Veterinary & Animal Husbandry Thenucho while launching the programme at the State Cattle Breeding Farm, Lerie.
Thenucho was hopeful that the service would enhance the productivity and production of indigenous and cross-breed livestock which in turn enhance rural economy.
He reiterated that the DAN government under the leadership of Neiphiu Rio has “a vision to see the economic growth of our rural areas through promotion of our indigenous livestock and poultry leading to the overall increase in the production of livestock and poultry in the state.”
With this zeal we will march ahead to achieve this goal, Thenucho added.
Also, Parliamentary Secretary Hewoto Awomi said that Nagaland being a state having maximum rural population, their activities are mainly confined to agri and allied departments. Among the allied activities, livestock wealth is considered to be a lifeline of income “so that farmers can provide education to their children.”
“Therefore, I as the Parliamentary Secretary of the department, have a commitment to reach out the services of the department to all villages of the state and therefore, this launching programme will translate the dreams and vision into a reality,” said Awomi.
He also hoped that disease free and genetic improvement of animal can bolster the progress and prosperity of economy through animal husbandry activities.
“Rearing of animals is a common practice among Nagas. However, this has been largely for domestic consumption and not for the market,” said Secretary Veterinary & Animal Husbandry Sentiyanger Imchen.
He said Nagaland imports livestock and poultry products estimated at Rs. 300 crore every year. “To bridge the wide gap between supply and demand, the public in general and farmers in particular have to be introduced to modern methods and technology, impart managerial skills and educate them on the potential of animal husbandry as an activity which would substantially increase income and thereby their living standards,” said Imchen adding that the extension services programme will address those issue and provide boost to animal husbandry as an economic activity.
“CRESP seeks to provide a single window delivery system of veterinary services at the farmers’ doorstep by dovetailing the resources and manpower under different schemes for wider and effective coverage. An action plan has been drawn to implement the programme”, Imchen said adding that doctors and veterinary field staff in their respective districts will visit all the villages quarterly (Once in every three months) in their areas. Services to be provided include, awareness camps and training on housing, management, feeding, disease prevention and control, selection of breed, breeding system, fertility, artificial insemination, treatment, vaccination against common diseases, distribution of supportive medicines and feed supplement, interaction with the farmers, survey of livestock etc.
Chief Secretary Lalhuma, IAS who chaired the function was optimistic that the programme would enable the state to march towards self-sufficiency in livestock and poultry. Dr. N. Meyase, Director, Veterinary and Animal Husbandry offered the vote of thanks.
Morung Express News
