Thenzawl, Sep 1: Thenzawl in Mizoram witnessed a grand celebration of the 3rd Mithun Day, bringing together delegates from across the four northeastern states of Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Nagaland and Mizoram. 
Arunachal Pradesh was represented by Minister Gabriel D Wangsu, who holds the portfolios of Agriculture, Horticulture, Animal Husbandry & Veterinary, Fisheries, Legal Metrology & Consumer Affairs and Food & Civil Supply. 
Speaking at the event themed "Integrated Mithun Farming," Minister Wangsu described the Mithun as not merely livestock but a cultural anchor, economic backbone and a living symbol of unity that binds the northeastern states together.
"From the snow-clad peaks of Arunachal to the lush green hills of Mizoram, the Mithun has walked with us through history—providing sustenance, status and strength," Minister Wangsu remarked, highlighting how Arunachal Pradesh, home to more than 90% of India's 3.9 lakh Mithun population, views this majestic animal as belonging to the entire Northeastern family.
He highlighted significant recent developments, including the recognition of Mithun by FSSAI as a food animal under the name "WESHI" and its inclusion in the Domestic Animal Diversity Information System (DAD-IS). These recognitions have opened new avenues for commercial farming and sustainable economic growth, marking what Minister Wangsu called "a milestone in the collective journey of NorthEastern states of transforming Mithun rearing from tradition to enterprise."
“Under the leadership of Chief Minister Pema Khandu, Arunachal Pradesh is strengthening its Mithun heritage through modern scientific approaches, including scientific breeding, fodder innovation, systematic healthcare, vaccination programmes and farmer cooperatives,” he highlighted in his address.
Wangsu further praised the collaboration between Arunachal Pradesh and ICAR-NRCM, which he said has yielded remarkable results. He also appreciated the Government of Mizoram's dedication to research, breed improvement and community-driven conservation through initiatives like pasture development, scientific rearing and farmer training.
While acknowledging the ongoing challenges including climate change, shrinking grazing lands, lack of value chain systems and evolving lifestyles. He emphasised that these challenges require innovation, cross-border collaboration among states, and a blend of science with tradition.
Minister Wangsu envisioned Thenzawl 2025 as a turning point where the Northeast resolved to work together for Mithun prosperity and the welfare of farmers who rear them. Drawing inspiration from the Mithun's resilience through ice ages, political upheavals, and social transformations, he called for adaptation through science while preserving traditions.
The event was attended by Mizoram Chief Minister Pu Lalduhoma, alongside Mizoram's Minister for Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Pu C. Lalsawivunga. Dr. Raghavendra Bhatta, DDG (AS) from ICAR and Dr. Iboyaima Meitei, Advisor to the North-East Council, Shillong, Directors from different states, scientists, and farmers from across the region enthusiastically participated in the celebration.
This celebration, following last year's event in Arunachal Pradesh, demonstrated the rotating nature of this important regional observance.
Wangsu was accompanied by Hage Tari (IOFS), Secretary of AHVDD; Dr. Danjan Longri, Director of AHVDD; S.J. Goswami, OSD to the Minister; Dr. Badal Biswakarma, DVO HQ; Dr. Bamang Raja, SVO HQ; N. Wangjen, PRO to the Minister; and Dr. Togo Bage, SVO HQ.

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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

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