Minister assures action on cattle smuggling, sets up of checkgates for animal health monitoring 

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaJuly 21, 2025

Minister for Animal Husbandry and Veterinary AL Hek has assured that the department, state police, and BSF are working together to curb cattle smuggling. 

Speaking to reporters on Monday, Hek said that the Deputy Commissioner (DC) of each district is the competent authority to implement the Prevention of Cruelty to Animal Act and take responsibility for stopping illegal activities.

Hek stated that seized cattle are handed over to the concerned authorities after settlement by the DC. 

He assured that specific cases of cattle smuggling would be addressed in consultation with the DC of the particular district.

Regarding health checks for livestock, Hek informed that the government is establishing two checkgates, one in Ri Bhoi and another in Garo Hills, to monitor the health of animals entering the state. The checkgate in Ri Bhoi is nearing completion, while work is in progress in Garo Hills.

Hek also commented on the protest by the Dorbar Shnong of Mawpat, which led to the cancellation of the inauguration of a C&RD block office building. 

He emphasized that the government is committed to ensuring minimum wages for workers, as per the law of the land. 

Hek stated that the issue is being addressed and that the government is working to implement minimum wages for workers in C&RD blocks.