[ Apeda Rondo ]
The most prestigious state animal, Bos frontalis, known as mithun, is becoming vulnerable. The semi-domesticated species is an indispensable and requiredutility beast for the tribes living in Arunachal Pradesh due to its immense value and unfathomable mythical connection to it. It is also vital because the tribal people use it when sacramental or other essential ritual practices are held in ethnic society.
Many have held the mithun in high regard and respected it throughout history. It is considered comparable to human beings due to its profound significance and various uses in different aspects of life, including traditional ceremonies, community festivals, and trade among tribes.
In the past, mithun slaughter was only permitted for specific traditional events and followed taboos. The tribal communities deeply value the mithun as it plays a crucial role in their society, protecting them from various challenges such as predators and trade-related issues.
But these days, it has been excessively exploited, disrespected, and unheeded due to gargantuan commercialisation. The main reason for weighty demands in the market is the increase in consumer calls and demand from various ranges. The species is losing its population, and costs are rocketing each possible month. On the other hand, it’s because of significant development in rural areas, unregulated cattle territory, or rampant clearance of grazing land, especially in isolated areas where livestock prefer to live.
One way to tackle the issue is for the government to integrate mithun farming with the animal husbandry & dairy development department, such as existing cattle management. Moreover, establishing a mithun research and rearing centre within the department will provide valuable support to farmers through institutional mechanisms and ensure the enforcement of strict guidelines to prevent further milk exploitation. This proactive approach is crucial because the mithun is essential to our agricultural heritage.
The government must take immediate and decisive action to introduce a draft policy addressing the high cost of cattle and the potential financial devastation for farmers in the event of their loss. The policy should include comprehensive cattle insurance to provide farmers with the necessary protection. Engaging farmers from every district through a committee led by the circle officer level is crucial for effective and efficient implementation. This will address genuine concerns, particularly those affected by tiger and dhole attacks, ensuring that mithun farmers receive the support they deserve.
Additionally, the policy must strongly formalise incentives to empower villagers and genuine landowners. Granting at least one village the authority to use tranquiliser guns for proper ownership identification and curing of wounds due to fatal accidents, with strict monitoring by the gaonbura level, is imperative for successful implementation and benefits. (The writer is a travel consultant at Kanhi Kanla Tours and Travels. He can be reached at rondoadiju@gmail.com.)
