Mithun (Bos frontalis) farming Potential, threats and conservation strategies
2021
Khan, M H | Mitra, Abhijit
Mithun is a massive semi-domesticated rare ruminant species mainly reared for meat. This strongly built hill animal of Southeast Asia plays an important role in the socio-economic and cultural life of the local population. In India, Mithun meat is considered to be more tender and superior over the meat of any other species. Due to gradual denudation of forests (natural habitat of Mithun) and commercialization of agricultural activities, the natural habitat of Mithun is decreasing. Further, present free ranging Mithun rearing system permits grazing of limited number of Mithun in a particular hill pocket without migration to other locations resulting a considerable inbreeding in this species. Due to frequent inbreeding and slaughter of best Mithun bull during ceremonial functions or any other auspicious occasion, make this species vulnerable. Looking into the tremendous socio-economic and cultural importance of Mithun in the life of the tribal population, initiatives were taken to conserve and popularize economic Mithun farming under semi-intensive condition with controlled breeding. Present article deals with origin, habitat, scientific rearing of Mithun including feeding, health care and breeding management and potential of Mithun for socio-economic development of tribal population. Initiatives taken up by ICAR-NRC on Mithun for conservation of Mithun and further strategies and action plan for propagation of Mithun is highlighted.
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