Veterinary Minister bats for promotion of natural farming
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, February 06 2023: Veterinary and Animal Husbandry Department minister Khashim Vashum has urged the people of the state to avail the various schemes/projects offered by the different government departments, adding that the works taken up by the government are not for the welfare of government officials but the people.

He made the statement during the valedictory function of the second edition of Indigenous Cow Mela organised by Veterinary and Animal Husbandry Department at Telou Ground, Imphal East District on Monday.

The closing function was attended by Lamlai AC MLA Kh Ibomcha, Horticulture and Soil Conservation additional CS P Vaiphei, Agriculture commissioner RK Dinesh, Veterinary and Animal Husbandry secretary Michael Achom, ICAR Manipur Centre joint director Dr I Meghachandra, Veterinary and Animal Husbandry director Dr Ng Ibotombi and CAU, Imphal dean Dr S Indira as presidium members.

Speaking on the occasion, minister Khashim conveyed that under the supervision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a nationwide project related to natural farming will be taken up, which will also include Manipur.

The state government under the leadership of CM N Biren has set a goal to make the natural farming project successful in the state.

As part of this effort, indigenous Cow Melas will be held in different parts of the state, with the first and second being held in Bishnupur and Imphal East Districts respectively.

Appreciating the people's support towards the Cow Mela, Khashim stated that natural farming and livestock rearing, particularly that of cows are interrelated.

The cow dung and cow urine will provide great benefits, he said and urged the farmers to practice livestock farming, thereby helping to increase their income and the general economy of the state.

He then said that the 'Meitei' Cow is a unique breed and should be preserved.

He further urged the people to extend support to the department, while adding that the latter will extend all possible support to the farmers.

In his speech, MLA Ibomcha appreciated the Department for organising the second Indigenous Cow Mela at Telou and urged the people to extend their support to the government's natural farming project, which is being taken up in consideration of the health of the people affected by usage/consumption of produces grown with chemical fertilisers.

He then called for helping to increase the indigenous cattle of the state and further avail the various benefits provided by the department, while also requesting to the government and department concerned to provide all possible help to the people of Lamlai.

As part of the fair, a competition for healthy cattle was held.

In the category for cows, Kshetrimayum Tombapu Meitei of Chana Maning Leikai, Laishram Dhaballo of Nongren Mayai Leikai and Ngangbam Thoibi Leima of Chana Mamang Leikai won first, second and third prize respectively.

In the category for bulls, Telou Maning Leikai residents, namely Thangjam Nandibala, Thangjam Dhanabir and Soibam Ibohanbi Meitei bagged the first, second and third prize respectively.

The first, second and third prize winners in both categories were awarded cash prize of Rs 50,000, Rs 25,000 and Rs 12,500, and also certificates.

The consolation prize winners were awarded Rs 500 and a certificate each.

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