Moa Jamir
Animal husbandry products are staple food of any homes in Nagaland. However, it faces a significant shortfall in meeting the demand for animal husbandry products. Anecdotally, a huge demand-supply gap is perceptible with the persistent increases, particularly in the prices of meat.
Official data affirms the perception. As per the Annual Administrative Report 2023-24 of the Nagaland’s Department of Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services, the State produces only 45.07% of the total requirement ofanimal husbandry, leaving a glaring gap of 54.93%.
This translates to a staggering shortfall of Rs 2490.72 crore in monetary value, highlighting the pressing need for action to bridge this deficit.
Drawing insights from the Sample Survey Report of 2020-21, the report offers a ray of hope amidst these challenges, underscoring the immense potential and scope for animal husbandry development in the state, both in terms of demand and supply. This presents a compelling opportunity for policymakers, stakeholders, and the community at large to work collaboratively towards bolstering internal production.
One encouraging trend highlighted in the report is the gradual reduction in the import quantum of animal husbandry products compared to the base level of 2001-02. While the import value stood at Rs 375 crore during that period, it has declined to Rs 276.69 crore in 2022-23.
Incidentally, notwithstanding inflation, the data shows over a 26.2% decline even after a decade, reflecting a positive correlation between State Domestic Products and the existing human population. It underlines the potential for stimulating local production to meet the growing demand, thereby reducing reliance on imports and bolstering economic self-sufficiency.
Moreover, the report sheds light on the per capita availability of meat and milk in the State, which, while satisfactory, falls short of the per capita requirement. This is attributed to changing food habits among the Naga populace, particularly in urban areas, the report noted.
As lifestyles evolve, there is a shift towards balanced diets comprising a variety of food items, including rice, meat, milk, vegetables, fruits, wheat, and its products. This transition underscores the need for diversification and expansion within the animal husbandry sector to cater to evolving dietary preferences.
Looking at the broader picture, the total requirement of animal husbandry products annually in Nagaland is substantial, encompassing meat, milk, and eggs. However, the State falls short in meeting these demands, with internal production covering only a fraction of the required quantity.
The urgency of enhancing domestic production capacities to bridge the gap and reduce dependence on external sources.In essence, there are opportunities to transform the shortfall into avenues for positive economic development.
Despite the existing shortfall, the reportmaintained an optimistic outlook, emphasising the potentiality of filling the deficits through increased internal production. This calls for concerted efforts from policymakers, farmers, entrepreneurs, and other stakeholders to prioritise investments, adopt modern techniques, and promote sustainable practices within the animal husbandry sector. Additionally, there is a need for supportive policies, infrastructure development, and capacity-building initiatives to empower local producers.
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