District-level training promotes livestock insurance awareness for farmers in Wokha

The Department of Animal Husbandry & Veterinary, Wokha, organised a district-level training programme for para-veterinarians and livestock farmers on Thursday at the Office of the Chief Veterinary and A.H. Officer, Zero Point Vankhosung, Wokha. The initiative aimed to promote scientific livestock management and create awareness about available insurance schemes.
The training covered multiple livestock species, including sheep, goats, poultry and cattle, with emphasis on improving local farming practices and reducing dependence on animals sourced from outside the state.
Chief Veterinary & Animal Husbandry Officer Dr. K.N. Zubemo Humtsoe, addressing the gathering, highlighted that livestock losses—particularly pigs—often result in significant financial setbacks for farmers. He informed that the department, in collaboration with the government, has introduced a livestock insurance scheme to provide financial security to farmers. He encouraged interested individuals to approach the Chief Veterinary Office for further details.
Dr. Humtsoe explained that insured animals must be ear-tagged for identification. In case of death, a post-mortem examination and burial would be conducted as per standard operating procedures, with claim processing completed within 14 days. He described the initiative as an introductory step aligned with the vision of Viksit Bharat, stressing that livestock insurance is vital in mitigating economic losses and strengthening self-reliance in meat production.
Under the scheme, 85 percent of the insurance premium is subsidised by the government, leaving farmers to pay only 15 percent. Compensation is determined by the weight of the animal, with a maximum limit of Rs. 25,000 for pigs. A single beneficiary can insure up to 10 cattle and 50 pigs.
The technical session was conducted by VS & District Nodal Officer (Livestock Insurance) Dr. Gwazenlo Tep, who reiterated the importance of ear-tagging and assured departmental assistance in the process. He elaborated on the benefits of livestock insurance, noting that it provides financial protection against death, loss or damage due to specified risks. He guided participants through documentation and claim settlement procedures, adding that the scheme covers pigs, sheep, goats, poultry, cattle, mithun and buffaloes.
The programme concluded with an interactive session, during which farmers clarified their doubts. Participants expressed confidence in rearing livestock, citing the insurance scheme as a crucial support mechanism for sustainable farming.