Repeated wolf attacks severely threaten the traditional practice of gayal rearing in the remote villages of Mizoram’s Serchhip district, causing significant losses to farming families and endangering a crucial aspect of Mizo culture. In villages like Sailulak and Leng, located near the Myanmar border, packs of wolves attack gayals, locally known as sial, primarily at night, targeting newborn and young calves. This disruption affects the semi-domesticated rearing system relying on free grazing in forested areas, leaving gayals vulnerable to predators.
Since its inception in 2017, when only five families reared about 50 gayals, the practice has grown to involve approximately 40 families with nearly 250 gayals. However, recurrent wolf attacks have led to major setbacks, with an estimated 300 young gayals lost since 2019, and wolves being identified as the main threat. As a result, safeguarding newborn calves has become a nearly impossible task for farmers.
The situation is dire in neighboring Leng village as well, where the number of families engaged in gayal rearing has dwindled from over 180 to just 11, now caring for only about 55 gayals. Farmer Tlanghmingthanga remarked that the ongoing attacks have discouraged many families from continuing this practice.
In response to the crisis, the State Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Department initiated a program in 2019 promoting gayal domestication by supplying fencing materials, shelters, and water ponds. However, full fencing has proven impractical due to the animals’ extensive roaming range, which often extends into Chin State in Myanmar. Additionally, farmers have expressed frustration over delays in compensation from the Environment, Forests and Climate Change Department, stressing the importance of timely payments for their recovery after losses.
For the Mizo people, gayals hold significance beyond mere livestock; they are seen as symbols of prosperity and social status, integral to cultural and religious ceremonies. Despite the mounting losses, farmers remain committed to the practice, viewing it as a vital connection to their identity and heritage.
