Meghalaya CM Conrad K Sangma Launches “Rural Backyard Piggery Scheme” For Farmers
Guwahati: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma unveiled the “Rural Backyard Piggery Scheme,” which aims to guarantee that farmers earn a sustainable living through various livestock agricultural endeavours, on Wednesday.
Sangma claimed that the government is successfully giving farmers possibilities for income generation and economic development through various welfare programmes in announcing the ambitious initiative for farmers.
The programme is introduced as part of the National Livestock Mission at Byrnihat in Ri-Bhoi district.
According to the chief minister, Meghalaya imports 18,000 MT of pork from other States and faces a severe supply and demand imbalance. By implementing the piggery programme, the state intends to address this issue.
He said that the government had designed the programme to assure the prosperity of low-income households through the use of livestock, such as pigs, chickens, and other animals.
The government has allocated Rs 15.18 crore for phase 1 of the programme, which would see the distribution of four upgraded high-yielding varieties to 6000 families. The second phase of the programme will be launched with an additional investment of Rs 25 crore, he said.
The “Meghalaya Piggery Mission,” one of the largest piggery development programmes, is being carried out by the government to make the state self-sufficient in pork. A zero-interest loan is offered as part of our goal to build up pig breeding and fattening operations. Loans totaling Rs. 43.67 crore have already been obtained by 250 cooperatives for raising pigs.
The “Rural Backyard Piggery Scheme,” supported by both the state and federal governments through the National Livestock Mission, was established by the government to further explore the potential of the piggery industry.
On August 10, the programme was introduced in the East Garo Hills district’s Samanda block. Farmers responded favourably and expressed their appreciation for it.
In accordance with this plan, farmers will receive 4 piglets—3 female and 1 male—to encourage pig breeding and supplement their monthly income. Each beneficiary will receive a livestock package worth Rs 25,000.
6000 marginal and impoverished farmers are expected to gain from this programme, which will also enhance the state’s pork output.