Mizoram's Gayal Farmers Face Relentless Wolf Attacks, Threatening Cultural Heritage
Farmers in the remote villages of Sailulak and Leng, located in Mizoram's Serchhip district near the Myanmar border, are confronting severe economic and cultural challenges. Packs of wolves are repeatedly attacking their herds of gayals, also known as mithun or Bos frontalis. These predators specifically target juvenile animals soon after birth, causing heavy losses to the communities.
Semi-Domestication System Under Threat
Vanlalruata, a farmer from Sailulak village, explained the current situation. Approximately forty families in Sailulak maintain nearly two hundred fifty gayals using a semi-domestication approach. "Five families started with about fifty gayals back in 2017," he stated. "The numbers increased steadily over the years despite repeated wolf attacks."
The state animal husbandry and veterinary department began supporting gayal domestication efforts in 2019. They provided essential materials including barbed wire, fencing components, shelters, and ponds. However, complete fencing remains impractical because gayals naturally roam freely through forest areas, grazing on available forage.
Cross-Border Grazing and Recognition
"Some of our animals even cross the Tiau river into Myanmar's Chin state to graze," Vanlalruata added. He noted that despite living primarily in wild conditions, gayals generally exhibit docile behavior and recognize their human owners.
Since 2019, villagers have lost nearly three hundred juvenile gayals to predators, with wolves identified as the primary threat. Farmers in neighboring Leng village report similar concerns. There, eleven families rear approximately fifty-five gayals.
Financial Challenges and State Support
Tlanghmingthanga from Leng village described their journey. They began rearing gayals in 2018 using bank loans, then expanded their operations with state support in 2021. Through these efforts, they have semi-domesticated over one hundred eighty animals.
Lalnghenchhana, another farmer from Leng, emphasized the need for timely compensation. "Timely compensation from the state environment and forest department for wolf attacks would significantly ease our financial burden," he stressed.
Cultural Significance of Gayals
The gayal, locally called sial, holds deep cultural importance in Mizo tradition. Owning these animals represents prosperity and high social status within the community. While not typically milked, gayals are highly valued for their meat, which features prominently in social gatherings and religious festivals.
Beyond their culinary value, gayals function as a traditional form of currency. They serve important roles in dowry payments, barter exchanges, and dispute settlements, maintaining their relevance in contemporary Mizo society.
Determination Amid Challenges
Despite mounting challenges from wolf attacks and financial pressures, farmers in Sailulak and Leng remain steadfast. They continue their commitment to rearing gayals, a practice deeply connected to Mizo heritage that dates back to their historical period in Burma before settling in present-day Mizoram.
The struggle extends beyond economic loss, touching the very fabric of cultural preservation. These communities demonstrate remarkable resilience as they balance modern challenges with ancient traditions.
