Celebrating the Mithun’s cultural & economic significance

September 2, 2023 44 Views No Comment

ICAR-NRCM observes first Mithun Day

DIMAPUR, SEPTEMBER 2 (MExN): The ICAR-National Research Centre on Mithun (ICAR-NRCM), Medziphema celebrated the 1st Mithun Day and organized a brainstorming session on September 1. This annual celebration involved various activities aimed at promoting Mithun and fostering overall development of the Mithun sector.

A press release from ICAR informed that the 20th livestock census shows an overall increase of 29.93% (297,289–386,293) of Mithun population over the previous census. Mithun is presently reared through a unique and traditional system known as free-range system. However, farmers are slowly adopting a semi-intensive rearing system where they are allowed to roam in forests and hilly terrains during the day for natural foraging and are confined in pens during the night for protection from predators. This practice not only aids in conservation of local biodiversity but also ensures sustainable livelihoods for local communities through utilization of Mithun products.

Mithun meat and milk hold significant value due to their quality, cultural importance, and potential health benefits. Mithun meat is cherished for its lean nature and distinct flavor, often consumed during special occasions in the North East. The milk, while is produced in comparatively lower quantities, is nutrient-rich. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has officially recognized Mithun as a food animal, effective from September 1, 2023.

To commemorate this milestone and celebrate the recognition, ICAR-NRC on Mithun proposes to celebrate ‘Mithun Day’ on September 1 every year.

Kazheto Kinimi, Advisor of AH & Veterinary Services complimented ICAR-NRCM’s achievements in research and extension activities. He pointed out that this is the right time to promote entrepreneurship activities in Mithun as it is recognized as a food animal. He stated that rearing and consumption of Mithun not only contributes to sustenance of local populations but also reflect the cultural and social significance attached to this animal.

Temjen Imna Along, Minister of Higher Education & Tourism highlighted the importance of ICAR-NRCM in inspiring Mithun farmers as it provides livelihood security. Along expressed pride that he is a “Mithun farmer” and encouraged other farmers to take up scientific Mithun farming. He thanked the institute for providing livelihood opportunities to rural people. He meanwhile urged all Mithun farmers to stop indiscriminate slaughter of well-built large-size Mithuns and instead keep them for breeding.

Dr. Abhijit Mitra, Animal Husbandry Commissioner, DAHD, GoI, and former Director, ICAR – NRC on Mithun emphasized the scope of Mithun as an organic, functional, and alternative food. Dr Mitra urged the North East Animal Husbandry Department to utilize the animal husbandry schemes demonstrating a commitment to the development of the agricultural and livestock sectors. Utilizing these schemes can lead to increased productivity, income generation, and sustainable management of livestock resources, benefiting both farmers and the broader community, he added.

M Iboyaima Meitei, Advisor (Horticulture), North East Council said that the Mithun is a unique and culturally significant animal that deserves preservation. This species not only plays a crucial role in livelihoods and dietary traditions of indigenous communities but also contributes to the rich biodiversity of the regions where it is found, he said. Conservation efforts should focus on sustainable breeding practices and habitat protection to ensure long-term survival of the Mithun, he added.

During the celebration, m-anitra app, an online market for Mithun trading, two MoUs with NEAFI LLP (Entrepreneur), Guwahati and Life Ministry Learning Centre (LMLC), Choümukedima and Bankable Mithun Project to obtain capital from banks for Mithun rearing were released.

A brainstorming session on strategies for development of Mithun sector in North East was also organised.