The Poultry Union Dimapur has imposed an indefinite ban on the sale and import of poultry from Assam coming through Lahorijan Karbi Anglong beginning from August 10 (Morung Photo).
Morung Express News
Dimapur | August 10
After allegations had emerged of a syndicate operating from Assam to control the poultry supply in Karbi Anglong area, the Poultry Union Dimapur (PUD) has imposed a ban on import of poultry into Nagaland from August 10 onwards.
PUD President Tiameren Aier and Treasurer Kimongtangba Jamir stated that the ban has been imposed for all poultry consignments coming from Lahorijan and Khatkhati in Assam. They explained that the decision was taken after it came to light that two individuals from Assam were operating a syndicate after obtaining a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC) to control poultry supply.
For each item being sold they (the syndicate) would receive Rs 30 as commission and no other source would be allowed to supply poultry except through their approval, they claimed. This move in turn would affect the supply in Nagaland as a majority of the consignments comes from that area. “They know that we are dependent on them for the sale of poultry in Nagaland so they are taking advantage of it,” they said.
The PUD stated that until the government resolves this issue, they would continue the ban indefinitely. On August 9, the union sent a complaint letter to the Commissioner of Police Dimapur, Kevithuto Sophie; wherein he had further contacted the Deputy Commissioner of Karbi Anglong to take necessary action. However, no such measures have been taken so far, they informed.
Ban on sale of poultry in Dimapur from August 11
Moreover, the PUD also announced that beginning August 11, sale of poultry would be banned as well. “We are standing for the interests of the common people of Nagaland,” they maintained.
On Thursday afternoon, it was observed across several locations in Dimapur that poultry sellers had closed down their shops. Meanwhile several individuals from Nagaland were seen buying chicken from Lahorijan. The going rate there was Rs 170-180 per kg for live chicken.
When asked why Nagaland was still relying heavily on import from outside and not from within, the members reasoned that firstly the prices of poultry feed should be subsidised by the government to induce farmers to rear chicken.
Moreover, sourcing of live chicks should be given utmost priority so as to create a self-sustaining atmosphere.
Dimapur Municipal Council (DMC) Administrator, W Manpai Phom had previously shared a similar sentiment as he observed that if a revamped system could be established where procurement of feeders and other supplies can be made locally, the State could benefit much.
In Nagaland, a considerable number of households privately rear local chicken. But this is not a significant amount and most are reliant on imported chicken sourced from the market.
