Annual fest in celebration of Haofa mooted
Source: The Sangai Express / Mungchan Zimik
Ukhrul, December 08 2022:
Veterinary & Animal Husbandry Minister Khashim Vashum has stated that the Haofa Festival will be celebrated annually to promote the Tangkhul indigenous canine breed.
The Minister made the announcement during a one day Haofa Festival held at Phungcham Village ground, Ukhrul.
During the festival, over 30 puppies of Haofa breed were put up for sale at the rate of Rs 5000 per pup.
Speaking as chief guest, Khashim Vashum assured that he will consult with the department concerned to work out a plan to conduct Haofa Festival every year.
While urging the gathering to extend support to the Government in taking up developmental projects, the Minister added that misunderstanding or issues, if any, should be resolved amicably.
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Dr Th Ranadhir Singh, Professor in charge of Livestock Unit, NEC Model Farm, Directorate of Extension Education CAU, Imphal stated that the indigenous Tangkhul canine breed (Haofa) will soon get recognition from National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources (NBAGR), Hary-ana as the process of regi- stration is at the final stage.
Dr Basanta Singh, Director of Research, Central Agricultural University, Imphal also spoke on the need to conserve indigenous animals such as Sangai, Haofa etc, adding that the varsity will consult with the State Government to popularise Haofa.
Dr Ng Ibotombi Singh, Director of Veterinary & Animal Husbandry highlighted the 'unique' features of Haofa, saying that the canine breed is a good companion of humans and possesses hunting skills.
As per the United Nations, animals whose population is less than 10,000 is categorised as an endangered species and so Haofa is also in the category, he added.
Col Manoj Shinde, Commandant of 35 AR also distributed solar lamps to the elderly persons of Phungcham village as a goodwill gesture.
Cultural items such as traditional folk songs, Sakhareng, Wotrei Kaphung, Thangrei Khangahei and a musical concert were also held as a part of the festival.
One owner of a Haofa who attended the festival said that more than 150 Haofa are being reared at Phungcham village.
Meanwhile, the Phungcham Haofa Lovers' Association submitted a memorandum to Veterinary and Animal Husbandry Minister Khashim Vashum to establish a centre for promotion of Haofa in the village.
The one day festival was organised by Phungcham Haofa Lovers' Association in collaboration with Phungcham village authority, Phungcham VDC, Phungcham Shanao Long and Phungcham Katamnao Mayar Ngala Long.