Dimapur, September 7 (MExN): A delegation of International Fund for Agriculture Development (IFAD) and United Nations Development Project (UNDP), who are in Nagaland to have a consultation with Govt. of Nagaland for preparation and implementation of the project proposal “Fostering Climate Smart Highland Agriculture in Rural Areas of Nagaland”, visited ICAR-NRC on Mithun on September 7.
The delegation visited the institute’s Mithun farm in the morning and witnessed the semi-intensive system of Mithun rearing developed and practised by the institute, informed a press release received here. Subsequently, they visited the Medziphema campus of the institute and had an interaction with the scientists there.
Dr. Abhijit Mitra, Director, ICAR-NRCM made a brief presentation about the activities of the institute and apprised the delegation about the importance of Mithun farming as an alternative livelihood for the region and conservation of the forest. Though mithun is traditionally reared as a meat animal, ICAR-NRC on Mithun has been trying to sensitise the people about the potential of Mithun as a source of milk, hide and drought power, it was highlighted. The institute also showcased the leather products made from Mithun skin.
The delegation liked the Mithun milk and “rasgulla’ made out of Mithun milk, which were offered to them, the release added.
Rasha Omar, Country Representative, India and Pacific, IFAD, who is leading the delegation, expressed satisfaction with the “impressive work of regional, national and international importance of particular significance and conservation of the species and its adaptation to the climate change,” according to the press release.
T. Imkonglemba Ao, APC & Commissioner Secretary, who is coordinating the visit, stressed on the significance of Mithun rearing for conservation of environment and maintaining the biodiversity.
The delegation also included Meera Mishar, Country Co-ordinator, India, IFAD; Lianchawii, Programme Analyst, UNDP; and John Borgoyary, Head, North East, UNDP.
