A Kisan Mela cum Brainstorming Session on Dairy Sector Development in Nagaland was held on Monday at ICAR–National Research Centre on Mithun (NRCM), at Porba in Phek district, bringing together policymakers, scientists, dairy experts and farmers to chart a comprehensive roadmap for strengthening the dairy sector in the state. The programme was graced by Kudecho Khamo, Adviser, CAWD & Taxes, Government of Nagaland, as the Chief Guest, who underscored the importance of scientific dairy practices, strengthening dairy cooperatives and developing robust value chains to enhance farmers’ income and make Nagaland self-reliant in milk production. Khamo lauded ICAR and the Department of Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services for initiating a structured and inclusive approach towards dairy sector development. Earlier, Dr. Sanjeev Kumar Singh, Senior Scientist and Head, KVK, delivered the welcome address. Dr. Girish Patil S., Director, ICAR–NRC on Mithun, highlighted the role of research-based interventions and institutional support in transforming the dairy sector.
The programme also featured addresses by Dr. Pritpal Kaur, Superintendent of Police, Phek; Dr. Imomanen Tzudir, Director, Animal Husbandry and Veterinary, Government of Nagaland; and Rhosietho Nguori, Deputy Commissioner, Phek. The technical session focused on the theme “Roadmap for Development of Dairy Sector in Nagaland.” Expert presentations included Dr. Kathiravan Periasamy (ICAR–NRCM) on the overview of the dairy sector in Nagaland, Dr. A. Sirohi (ICAR–CIRC, Meerut) on scientific dairy farming, and Dr. Sivakumar (ICAR–NAARM, Hyderabad) on strategies to enhance the dairy value chain. Chairmen of dairy cooperatives DIMUL, KOMUL and MOMUL shared insights on challenges and future prospects. A round-table discussion followed, involving experts from ICAR, the State Animal Husbandry Department, Nagaland Livestock Development Board, dairy cooperatives and farmers, leading to the circulation and discussion of a draft roadmap for dairy sector development in the state.
