Why are yaks important in the higher parts of Arunachal Pradesh?

In the higher elevations of Arunachal Pradesh, yaks are essential to the local economy and way of life. These animals are uniquely adapted to thrive in extreme high-altitude environments, where their specialized physiology—including a high lung capacity and efficient oxygen transport—allows them to survive at elevations between 4,000 and 6,000 metres.12

Beyond their ability to endure harsh climates, yaks serve as vital multi-purpose animals for mountain communities. They are traditionally utilized as beasts of burden for transport and are highly valued for their meat, milk, hides, and fur. Additionally, in treeless high-altitude regions, their dried dung serves as a critical source of fuel. Their dense, double-layered coats provide the necessary insulation to withstand freezing temperatures, making them indispensable partners for human survival in the state's rugged, high-altitude terrain.23