Mithun, the Majestic Bovine, Discovered in Assam for the First Time
Mithun, the Majestic Bovine, Discovered in Assam for the First Time
In a significant breakthrough, Mithun (Bos frontalis), a revered bovine species native to Northeast India, has been discovered for the first time in Assam’s Dima Hasao district. This discovery, which could enhance agricultural diversity in the state, has sparked excitement among local farmers and agricultural experts.
Mithun, also known as 'Gayal,' are essential to the socio-economic and cultural lives of tribal communities in the region. Typically found in Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Mizoram, and Nagaland, their presence in Assam marks a new chapter for the state.
Based on the inputs from the team of Veterinarians from the district and guidance of Dr Kishore Baruah, Former Head, Dept of Animal and Fishery Sciences, ICAR RC for NEH Region and Member, General Body, ICAR, New Delhi, on 05th April 2024, team of Scientists visited Laisong village of Dimahaso district. As per the information elicited, Mithun are reared by farmers in three pockets viz., Laisong, Langting and Thaijuwari.
Total number of Mithun collectively in these pockets in more than 200
ICAR – National Research Centre on Mithun, Nagaland with the support of Dima haso Autonomous Council is committed to protect this unique population and provide all the support to the Mithun farmers.
The ICAR – National Research Centre on Mithun, Nagaland, with support from the Dima Hasao Autonomous Council, is committed to protecting this unique population. On August 21, 2024, an awareness and technology injection program was held to support local Mithun farmers with necessary resources like fencing materials and night shelters. Additional initiatives include disease screening, morphometric characterization, and promoting Mithun-based tourism. Dr Bhairav Kakoti, Additional Director cum DVO, Dima Hasao coordinated the meeting.
"This is a historic moment for Assam," said Dr. Girish Patil, Director of ICAR – NRC on Mithun, emphasizing the potential for sustainable agriculture and rural development. The discovery highlights Assam's rich biodiversity and positions the state as a leader in sustainable agriculture.
Recognized as a meat animal by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) since September 2023, Mithun is celebrated annually on Mithun Day, with the next celebration planned for September 2024 in Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh.
