Mechuka (Shi-Yomi District): In a major boost to traditional livestock rearing and tribal economy, the Arunachal Pradesh government has launched a yak reintroduction programme in the remote high-altitude region of Mechuka in Shi-Yomi district.
As part of the initiative, six yaks (four females and two males) were formally distributed to local tribal farmers on Friday. The move aims to restore yak population in the area where numbers have significantly declined over the years, thereby reviving a vital source of livelihood for highland communities.
Around 45 local farmers were also provided training and awareness on scientific yak rearing practices. The programme is being supported under the Scheduled Tribe Component (STC), which includes supply of necessary inputs to ensure better productivity and long-term sustainability.
The drive is being implemented by the ICAR-National Research Centre on Yak, led by Director Dr. Mihir Sarkar, in close collaboration with the Jomlo Mongku Mithun Farmers Federation and the Arunachal Pradesh Department of Animal Husbandry.
Officials described the project as a crucial step towards conserving the indigenous yak population while generating sustainable income for tribal families living in one of the state’s most remote and ecologically fragile regions. Yaks are traditionally valued for their milk, meat, wool, and as pack animals in high-altitude terrains.
This initiative is expected to strengthen the rural economy of Mechuka and surrounding areas while preserving the unique cultural and livestock heritage of the tribes residing in Arunachal’s upper reaches.
Tags: Yak Reintroduction Mechuka, Arunachal Yak Programme, Shi-Yomi District, Tribal Livelihoods Arunachal, ICAR National Research Centre on Yak, Dr Mihir Sarkar, Animal Husbandry Arunachal, High Altitude Livestock, Sustainable Farming Arunachal, Northeast Tribal Economy
Hashtags: #YakReintroduction #Mechuka #ArunachalPradesh #TribalLivelihoods #YakRearing #ShiYomi #NortheastIndia #SustainableDevelopment #ArunachalFarming #HighAltitudeEconomy
