Dr Zasekuolie Chusi addressing World Veterinary Day in Kohima on April 25. (Morung Photo)
• Imports products worth Rs 263.56 crore
• Consumes 60% of India’s pork production
• Dairy, egg availability far below recommended levels
Our Correspondent
Kohima | April 25
Nagaland meets only 44.56% of its total demand for animal husbandry products, leaving a shortfall of 55.44%, indicating insufficient for internal consumption, an official said on Saturday.
Addressing the World Veterinary Day celebrations in Kohima on April 25, Dr Zasekuolie Chusi, Commissioner and Secretary for the Department of Land Revenue, Tourism and Director of Census Operations, said the state imports animal husbandry products worth Rs 263.56 crore in monetary terms as per 2025-26 estimates, indicating heavy dependant on other states.
In a striking revelation, Dr Chusi said Nagaland alone accounts for 60% of the country's total pork consumption, with another 30% going to other northeastern states and only 10% reaching the rest of India. “The consumption rate is pretty high,” he said, adding that pork consumption in Nagaland is more than one-fifth of the total pork production in the country.
Highlighting the huge gap between demand and supply, Dr Chusi pointed to the 2024-25 per capita availability figures, which paint a stark picture of nutritional shortfalls in the state.
On dairy products, he said the recommended per capita availability stands at 150 grams per day, but actual availability is only 67 grams, less than half the required amount.
The situation with eggs is equally concerning. Against the recommended per capita availability of 110 eggs annually, residents are currently getting only 34 to 40 eggs per capita.
Touching on the huge gap between demand and supply, he said, “Isn't it a challenge to this profession?” and called upon the veterinarians to analyze and introspect of what they are doing.
“Isn't it a challenge to this profession?” he asked, calling upon the veterinarians to analyze and introspect of what they are doing and to ponder upon this per capita trend in the state.
Call for strengthening veterinary systems
Nagaland Veterinarians’ Association (NVA) President Dr KN Zubemo Humtsoe stressed that strengthening veterinary systems will not only benefit animals but also ensure food safety and public health at large.
“We must invest in veterinary education and research to prepare future generations for emerging challenges. Innovations in science and technology, including diagnostics, vaccines, and digital tools, must be made accessible to veterinary professionals,” he said.
“You protect our food, safeguard our health, and preserve our environment. We are truly the guardians of food and health,” Dr Humtsoe said.
He challenged the veterinarians to move forward with a shared vision where animals are treated with care and dignity, where food systems are safe and sustainable and where communities thrive in harmony with nature
Together, we can build a future that is healthier, safer, and more compassionate, he said.
“As we celebrate this day, let us also recognize the importance of responsible animal ownership, ethical farming practices, and awareness about animal welfare. Each of us has a role to play in supporting the work of veterinarians and contributing to a healthier society,” he added.
