Semi-Intensive Mithun Farm Unit launched in Longleng

Longleng, May 7 (MExN): A major milestone in livestock development was achieved with the inauguration of the Semi-Intensive Unit of Mithun Farm at Lokak Phai, Longleng, Nagaland aimed at promoting scientific Mithun rearing and strengthening tribal livelihoods. 

The monolith was unveiled by Dr Girish Patil S, Director of ICAR – National Research Centre on Mithun, Medziphema, who graced the occasion as the inaugurator.

The programme began with P Chuthai Phom as chairperson. An invocation was delivered by A Leitok Phom, Pastor, HBC, followed by welcome address by P Moilei Phom, President of MFAH. Speeches were delivered by Longcha Phom, Chairman H/C; Pukyung Phom, Political Leader; Dr Hari Charan Kalita, Senior Scientist & Head, ICAR-KVK Longleng; Dr Homeswar Kalita, Head, ICAR-HORC, Nagaland centre; and W Manpai, Deputy Commissioner of Longleng, who attended as chief guest.

Dr Girish Patil, in his address, provided valuable technical guidance to Mithun farmers. He emphasised the need to adopt scientific practices to prevent issues such as inbreeding depression, Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD), and internal and external parasites. 

He stressed the importance of vaccination, maintaining genetic diversity, and improving fodder availability. He also advised farmers to register on the ICAR Mithun portal, which would help facilitate online Mithun sales and government support. 

Dr Patil encouraged the adoption of artificial insemination techniques for genetic improvement and proposed the establishment of a Mithun-based Ecopark in Longleng to promote eco-tourism and conservation.

ICAR-KVK, Longleng, played a crucial role in supporting this initiative under the guidance of esteemed Dr Homeswar Kalita, Head, ICAR-HORC, Nagaland centre. 

Dr Hari Charan Kalita, Senior Scientist and Head of KVK emphasised the need for balanced feeding, breeding management, timely deworming, and regular health check-ups. He reiterated KVK’s commitment to empower tribal farmers with need-based technologies, training, and sustained field support.

The event concluded with vote of thanks by S Niamkai Phom, followed by benediction mass and community lunch.