ICAR-NRCM conducts a live demonstration of humane slaughter technology for meat vendors in Dimapur and Chümoukedima.
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DIMAPUR — A live demonstration of humane methods for slaughtering pigs and poultry was held for local meat vendors of the Dimapur and Chümoukedima districts at the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)-National Research Centre on Mithun (NRCM) in Medziphema on Tuesday.
According to an update, the programme was organised by ICAR-NRCM in collaboration with ICAR-National Meat Research Institute, Hyderabad, and the chief veterinary officers (CVOs) of Chümoukedima and Dimapur under the Department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services.
Dr. Girish Patil S, Director of the institute, in his opening remarks, pointed out that for years, most meat vendors in Nagaland have followed traditional slaughter practices that do not align with humane protocols laid down under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) guidelines.
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These practices often cause avoidable suffering to animals and raise concerns over hygiene and meat quality. To address this, a live demonstration of humane slaughter techniques was conducted at the institute, introducing scientifically approved methods such as electrical stunning for poultry and pigs.
These methods render the animal unconscious before slaughter, ensuring minimal pain and distress while improving meat hygiene and safety for consumers.
Dr. C Ramakrishna, Principal Scientist from ICAR-National Meat Research Institute (NMRI), Hyderabad, gave a virtual PowerPoint presentation on how the technology can help local butchers, entrepreneurs, and stakeholders in the meat sector.
Dr. Sunil Doley, Head of Department at ICAR-Mizoram Centre, Kolasib, who attended the programme as the chief guest, exhorted the gathering by stating that by embracing humane slaughter, butchers are protecting consumers, upholding the law, and setting an example for others. He assured them that scientists are available to support them with equipment, training, and guidance.
Dr. Kobu Khate, Senior Scientist, gave a live demonstration of the proper use of electric stunning equipment, and the participants also had the opportunity to access hands-on learning, gaining confidence in handling the technology.
Dr. Sentila, CVO Dimapur, also spoke on the occasion and encouraged the butchers to fully adopt the technology and set an example for others in the market.
As part of the programme, 28 beneficiaries were provided with a full set of electric stunning equipment to encourage the adoption of humane slaughter practices and hygienic meat management at the grassroots level.