Guwahati, Jan 24: Experts and policymakers have called for a strategic shift in Northeast towards modern practices and self-reliance to bridge the region’s demand-supply gap in meat, milk, eggs, and fodder.

This was the common refrain which emerged from the Conclave on Dialogue for Holistic Development of Livestock Sectors in the North-East Region,” which concluded in Shillong today.

They have emphasized that Northeast must reduce its dependence on imports by encouraging local production of feed and livestock products. Public-private partnerships can play a crucial role in creating infrastructure and investment opportunities.

The region struggles with low productivity in its livestock sector. Per capita milk availability is far below the national average, and there is a severe shortage of fodder. Additionally, the declining livestock population, particularly native breeds, and the devastating impact of African Swine Fever (ASF) on the piggery sector were emphasized as critical challenges.

Heavy reliance on imports for livestock products and feed further underscores the region’s vulnerability, and traditional farming methods are failing to meet modern demands. Policymakers also expressed concern over the lack of risk management tools like livestock insurance and the need to conserve species like the Mithun, which holds cultural and economic significance in the region.

To overcome these challenges, the policymakers have called on Northeast farmers to adopt innovative techniques like hydroponics for fodder cultivation and sex-sorted semen technology to increase milk production. Embracing modern animal husbandry methods can significantly improve productivity.

There needs to be an increased focus on genetic improvement of local breeds and government-supported vaccination drives, such as those targeting Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD), are essential.

Focused efforts are needed to control ASF and establish biosecurity measures, which would reduce farmer losses and revive the piggery sector, a vital industry in the Northeast.

Farmers should be equipped with training, innovative tools, and better access to veterinary services to enhance livestock care and productivity.

Efforts should be made to conserve and promote indigenous breeds like the Mithun can preserve cultural heritage while contributing to the economy.

Experts said the Northeast has the potential to become a hub for exporting high-quality pig and pig products. Strengthening production capacity and meeting global standards can open up lucrative markets.

The conclave underlined the need for focusing on innovation, self-sufficiency, and sustainability, which can help the Northeast to emerge as a leader in India’s livestock industry.

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