First Recorded Sightings of Mithun Bovine in Assam

The mithun, also known as the gayal (Bos frontalis), is a semi-wild type of cattle traditionally raised by hill tribes. For the first time, this animal has been recorded in Assam, which is an important discovery in animal science. Previously, mithuns were only thought to live in the Indian states of Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, and Mizoram. This new finding shows that mithuns are also present in the Dima Hasao district of central Assam.

Where Are Mithuns Found?

Historically, mithuns were mostly found in specific areas of northeast India:

• Arunachal Pradesh: Home to 350,154 mithuns
• Nagaland: 23,123 mithuns
• Manipur: 9,059 mithuns
• Mizoram: 3,975 mithuns

However, experts have recently found more than 200 mithuns in the remote areas of Laisong, Langting, and Thaijuwari in Assam. This discovery expands our understanding of where these animals live.

Challenges in Finding Mithuns

In the past, mithuns were not correctly identified in livestock surveys. Census workers often labeled them as “others,” which caused these animals to be overlooked in official livestock records. It wasn’t until recent visits by specialists that the true number of mithuns in Assam was recognized.

Health Concerns and Farmer Support

Like other domesticated cattle, mithuns can suffer from diseases like foot-and-mouth disease. To help farmers who rear mithuns, educational programs have been launched. Recently, an awareness campaign provided farmers with tools and equipment to create semi-intensive rearing units and better manage their mithun herds. Mithuns play a crucial role in the lives of tribal communities in northeast India. They are important for their meat, milk, and agricultural uses. The discovery of mithuns in Assam could lead to new initiatives that improve the livelihoods of local farmers and increase agricultural diversity in the region.

Further research and initiatives are planned to learn more about mithuns and how to support their farming. A more accurate count of mithuns will be part of the next livestock census, starting on September 1. The Dima Hasao Autonomous Council is also discussing ways to promote mithun farming, which could turn this discovery into a valuable resource for the region’s agriculture.

Month: Current Affairs - August, 2024

Category: States Current Affairs