The ICAR–Arunachal Pradesh Centre, Leparada, has taken a step towards improving sustainable mithun farming by distributing Hybrid Napier root slips to mithun farmers in Siang district for the development of organised fodder plots. The initiative was implemented through the Jomlo Mongku Mithun Farmer Federation (JMMFF) with the aim of ensuring year-round availability of nutritious green fodder for mithuns. Officials said the programme is designed to help farmers gradually transition from traditional free-grazing systems to semi-intensive rearing practices. With Arunachal Pradesh recording the highest mithun population in the country, experts have stressed the importance of scientific management and conservation of the species for both livelihood security and cultural continuity. The introduction of high-yield fodder varieties like Hybrid Napier is expected to reduce dependence on forest grazing, enhance feed quality, and boost animal health and productivity. Welcoming the initiative, JMMFF chairman Tadang Tamut expressed appreciation on behalf of the federation and local farmers, and thanked ICAR–AP Centre Head Dr Doni Jini and Senior Scientist Joken Bam for their sustained guidance and support in promoting eco-friendly mithun husbandry in the region.
