Kohima, Vice-President M. Venkaiah Naidu Naidu today visited the ICAR- National Research Center on Mithun at Dimapur in Nagaland today and called upon the scientists to come out with innovative research to protect and conserve the rich bio-resources and livestock of the North Eastern Region.
He said North Eastern India is an important biodiversity hotspot, where our scientific institutions should work for development of location specific technologies which are sustainable, climate resilient and culturally in sync with the tribal cultures of the region.
“I am very pleased to be with you here at this ICAR-National Research Centre on Mithun, the only institute of its kind in the world solely dedicated to the conservation, propagation and development of Mithun which is endemic to the North-eastern States of India and I am happy to know that the Institute has been playing a key role in the conservation, breeding, nutrition and health management of Mithun and over the last three decades, has generated invaluable scientific data towards the understanding of this unique species.”
Interacting with the scientists and researchers of ICAR-National Research Centre on Mithun and ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region during the visit, he urged the scientists to work towards modernising agriculture with the adoption of latest technologies for the progress and prosperity of the North-Eastern States.
During the visit to Mithun Center, Mr. Naidu also visited Central Instrumentation Facility (CIF) Laboratory where diseases and diagnostics relating to this unique animal were explained to him.
Noting that the Research Centre has done full genome sequencing of Mithun to understand its evolutionary history across the distinct geographical locations, Naidu said “Equally praiseworthy are your efforts in providing healthcare services to Mithun farms in the area and development of a Mithun mitra mobile app for the farmers. Stating that the state animal holds immense significance economically, socially and emotionally for the people of Nagaland, the Vice President suggested that educated youth should be attracted towards the conservation of the animal.
The function was attended by Governor of Nagaland and Assam Prof. Jagdish Mukhi, Deputy Chief Minister of Nagaland Y. Patton, Agriculture Minister of Nagaland G. Kaito Aye, Director of ICAR- National Research Center on Mithun, Dr. Meraj Haider Khan Joint Director of ICAR- Research Complex for NEH Region, Dr. D. J. Rajkhowa, scientists among others.
(EW correspondent)
