Import of animal husbandry products by Nagaland government has come down marginally. As per a latest sample survey report of the Veterinary department 2016-17, the import of animal husbandry products by State had come down to Rs 212.98 crore from Rs 214.74 crore in 2014-15.
This was disclosed by deputy director Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services, Dr Kuokehebi Gwirie while addressing an orientation programme for veterinarians and para- veterinarians at Town Hall here on Wednesday.
He also pointed out that out of the total requirements of products worth Rs 1,116.40 crore, the State produced only 52%, leaving behind a shortfall of 48% worth Rs 814.53 crore. He said despite the gap in terms of demand and supply, the quantum of import of animal husbandry products had gradually reduced, as compared with the base level of 2001-2002, which in monetary terms stood at Rs 375 crore.
Therefore, in order to meet growing requirement for domestic products – meat, milk and egg – in the State, Kuokehebi called upon the veterinarians and para-veterinarians to shift focus on commercial farming by utilising technology. “We need traditional system but, to increase productivity, we need to adopt new technology,” he added.
He pointed out that the department has set priorities and vision to achieve self-sufficiency in meat, milk and egg in the State.
Parliamentary Secretary (Information and Technology) Dr I Longriniken, who was the chief guest at the inaugural programme, informed the participants from all the districts that as professionals it was their duty to venture out and create avenues for unskilled youth.
He reminded them of their role and duties – not remain confined to only dealing with animals, but also fill the existing gap between the demand and availability of livestock products.
According to Dr Longriniken, Nagaland had sufficient scope for livestock entrepreneurs, but there was a huge gap between demand and availability of livestock products. He, therefore, urged the veterinarians to perform their duties with sincerity and honesty, which would help create thousands of jobs for the unskilled youth that would boost the State’s economy. He also urged the veterinarians and para-veterinarians to equip themselves with the latest techniques and knowledge so that they could execute their assigned tasks without much difficulty.
Short speech on behalf of Nagaland Veterinary Field Assistants’ Association (NVFAA) was delivered by its president Tokiho. The programme was chaired by Joint Director Dr Aomangyang Walling.
Meanwhile, the 18th general conference of NVFAA will be held on Thursday. Resource persons NLDB Programme Officer Dr Keduzol Ltu and Dr Vikshe of VAS will speak on the topics “Sensitization on emerging diseases” and “Importance of deworming and mineral supplements” respectively. It will be followed by election of new office bearers.
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