Context: In a landmark decision, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has officially recognized the Mithun, a captivating and culturally significant bovine species found in Northeast India, as a 'food animal'.

Benefits of Recognition

• This recognition has opened up opportunities for farmers and tribal communities to benefit commercially from the sale and processing of Mithun meat.

• Traditionally reserved for special occasions, Mithun meat can now be sold in the market, offering economic potential for farmers.

• Efforts include training farmers in better Mithun care and promoting Mithun products in regions beyond their traditional consumption areas.

Key features

• The Mithun is highly valued in the northeastern states of India and is even regarded as the state animal in Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland. Its significance in traditional customs and rituals is a reflection of its importance in the cultural heritage of the region.

• Mithun is typically partially domesticated and does well in a forest environment where it can roam freely without much interference from humans. This method of raising Mithun is in line with sustainable and environmentally friendly farming practices.

• The FSSAI’s recognition of Mithun as a ‘food animal’ has created economic opportunities for farmers and tribal communities to sell and process Mithun meat. Its low-fat content makes it a desirable meat choice for health-conscious consumers.

• The marketing of different Mithun products like vacuum-packed dry meat, pickles, soups, wafers, and instant biryani shows a shift towards diversifying and increasing value, reaching beyond the northeastern region.

Mithun

• The Mithun, also known as Bos frontalis.

• Mithun, also known as the “Cattle of the Hills,” plays a crucial role in the culture, economy, and ecology of this area.

• Distribution: It is a unique type of cow found in the hilly areas of Northeast India, mainly in Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, and Mizoram.

• Characteristics: Mithun is similar to domestic cattle but has unique characteristics like a hump on its shoulders, long horns that curve upward, and a flap of skin under its throat.

• The colour of their coat can be different, with variations of black, brown, and white. The colour can be influenced by their age and where they live.

• Cultural Aspects: Mithun holds great significance in the cultures and traditions of indigenous communities in Northeast India and is commonly known as the “family bank” due to its economic value. It is utilised in various rituals, festivals, and ceremonies among tribal societies, symbolising wealth and social standing.

• Economic Importance: Mithun, a valuable resource for local communities, provides livelihood and sustenance. They are utilised for their meat, milk, and hides, with their meat being highly prized. Mithun farming is a crucial component of the traditional agro-pastoral system in these areas.

• The Mithun populations are dealing with several difficulties such as the breaking up of their habitat because of development projects, competition with domestic cattle, and the possibility of diseases like foot-and-mouth disease.

Conclusion

• The Mithun, a significant species of cattle found in Northeast India, holds great cultural and ecological value. Its impact on indigenous communities, ecological balance, and local traditions makes it crucial to conserve and manage it sustainably.