The National Research Centre on Yak (NRCY) based at Dirang in the last few years has been able to bring down yak deaths caused by the parasitic Babesiosis disease by 90 per cent, a development which came as a huge relief to the local Brokpas whose main source of livelihood comes from this domesticated animal.

Further, scientific mediation in rearing techniques has not only increased the Yak population from 9000-odd in 2003 to over 14,000 now, it has also convinced the Brokpas that they can rear animals without having to constantly move from one place to another.

In a similar way, the Mithun also holds a very important place in the indigenous tribal way of life of Arunachal. Not just enhancing social status, they are a must in marriages, as it is the only medium of payment of bride price. Moreover, these bovines are considered sacred and sacrifice is obligatory in all ceremonial rituals.

Arunachal accounts for 82 per cent of India’s Bos Frontalis population according to the All India Livestock Census of 2007. Often referred to as ‘the cattle of the mountains’ and ‘ship of the highland’, this bovine has come under serious threat due to many of the socio-cultural rituals and practices. 

This animal which is raised on free-range areas are under serious threat as grazing with cattle has increased chances of crossbreeding, leading to a gradual loss of “species uniqueness” and fitness traits. Coupled with people’s vanity to show off their social clout, scores of Mithuns or Gayals are sacrificed wantonly. Further, the latest trend of slaughtering for meat all headed to the commercial market is making matters worse.

Recently, CM Pema Khandu had requested for a National Research Centre for Mithun and the Centre recently had also announced its willingness to give all possible help for 'Mithun’ conservation but practically speaking that alone would not suffice to save this precious animal species. 

There is a need for the local administration and community based organizations to work together to check the number of sacrifices/slaughtering during marriage, festivals etc. Besides “affirmative action”, some deterrent factors also must be put in place, if success in scientific endeavours is to be achieved.

---

Kenter Joya Riba

(Managing Editor)
      She is a graduate in Science with post graduation in Sociology from University of Pune. She has been in the media industry for nearly a decade. Before turning to print business, she has been associated with radio and television.
Email: kenterjoyaz@easternsentinel.in / editoreasternsentinel@gmail.com
Phone: 0360-2212313

<< Back to News List