The ICAR-National Research Centre on Yak (ICAR-NRC on Yak), Dirang, Arunachal Pradesh, in collaboration with WWF-India, Western Arunachal Landscape, Dirang, organized a three-day awareness and yak health camp for high-altitude yak herders in the villages of Jang, Mago, and Thingbu in Tawang district. The camp, which concluded today, aimed to equip the tribal yak herders with essential knowledge and resources to enhance modern yak care, health management, and productivity.
A demonstration cum awareness programme on “Scientific Yak Husbandry Practices” was conducted by Dr. Mokhtar Hussain, ACTO, ICAR-NRC on Yak, with support from the Schedule Tribe Component (STC). The programme focused on key aspects of yak husbandry, including improved feeding techniques, breeding practices, and health protocols aimed at increasing herd productivity and resilience. Dr. Hussain also introduced the department’s artificial insemination (AI) programme and discussed its role in improving yak productivity and genetics. In addition, he addressed common health issues in yaks, covering topics such as disease prevention, vaccination schedules, and correct dosing procedures to help herders manage the health of their herds effectively.
Another awareness programme on adopting suitable yak health management practices for the tribal yak herders was conducted by Ms. Shubham Loat, Scientist, ICAR-NRC on Yak. The programme aimed to enhance modern yak care and health management practices, with active participation from the local community.
The camp saw enthusiastic participation from nearly 200 yak herders (Brokpas) from the villages of Mokto, Rho, Jangda, Shyaro, Lhou, Jang, Mago, and Thingbu. Many women actively participated, reflecting a strong interest in learning about scientific yak management techniques. To support the herders, essential supplies such as yak feed, salt, portable solar lights, gumboots, and veterinary medicines were distributed under the STC initiative of ICAR-NRC on Yak.
A special awareness and vaccination programme on Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) and Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) was also conducted under the Livestock Health and Disease Control Programme (LHDCP). Dr. Mokhtar Hussain briefed the participants on the epidemiology of these diseases and emphasized the importance of timely vaccinations and the need to report any outbreaks promptly.
The Brokpas and local herders expressed their gratitude to Dr. Mihir Sarkar, Director, ICAR-NRC on Yak, Dirang, for his continuous support and guidance. This three-day programme, through its hands-on demonstrations and distribution of essential supplies, successfully highlighted the importance of scientific yak management practices and provided the necessary resources to the yak herders of Tawang district
