Third Mithun Day Celebrated in Thenzawl, Mizoram

1 September 2025, Mizoram

ICAR–National Research Centre on Mithun, Nagaland, celebrated the third Mithun day in collaboration with the Mizoram Animal Husbandry Department and ICAR–Central Institute for Research on Goats today.

Chief Minister of Mizoram, Pu Lalduhoma’s urged a science-led and community-driven Mithun economy. He stressed the need for sustainable forest use, farmer-friendly technologies, and stronger state support to turn Mithun rearing into a viable livelihood option.

Pu C. Lalsawivunga, Minister of Animal Husbandry, Govt of Mizoram, emphasised tighter collaboration between state departments and ICAR institutes to improve productivity, animal health, and value chain opportunities.

Gabriel D. Wangsu, Minister of Fisheries, Govt of Arunachal Pradesh, highlighted the cultural and economic value of Mithun and pushed for regional cooperation, recognizing that the survival and growth of Mithun farming depend on collective efforts across states.

Dr. Raghavendra Bhatta, Deputy Director General (Animal Science) ICAR, reiterated ICAR’s commitment to R&D and farmer outreach.

Dr. Girish Patil, Director, ICAR–NRCM, reminded the gathering that there is more than 3.86 lakh Mithun across five states, and that community forests remain central to their survival. He underlined that Mithun Day, first observed in 2023 after FSSAI recognized Mithun as a food animal, has become a platform not only for celebration but for reviewing progress and planning concrete interventions.

Experts also laid out the scientific roadmap. Beyond speeches, the event created space for action: exhibition stalls showcased new technologies, progressive farmers were recognized, and publications were launched to guide better practices.

The constructive outcome was clear: stakeholders left with a renewed commitment to scale up Mithun farming through innovation, cooperation, and policy support transforming it into a pillar of livelihood security and rural prosperity in the Northeast.

As the day concluded, the message resonated strongly that Mithun is not just an animal of tradition, it is a partner in shaping Viksit Bharat @ 2047.

The event brought together policymakers, scientists, and farmers with one clear agenda—strengthening the Mithun sector as a driver of sustainable livelihoods.

(Source: ICAR–National Research Centre on Mithun, Nagaland)