Northeast Desk, 23th September: The Mizoram Pig Farmers’ Association has reported that the state is unable to achieve self-sufficiency in pork production due to significant swine deaths caused by African Swine Fever (ASF) and Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS).
According to the Integrated Sample Survey Report 2023 from the Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Department, Mizoram consumes approximately 407,145 kg of pork monthly, valued at around Rs. 16.3 crore. The association noted that while Mizoram has sufficient pig farms to meet local demand and potentially export, the high mortality rates over the past decade have led to substantial losses for farmers.
The region experienced severe setbacks starting in 2013 with PRRS outbreaks, which recurred in 2016 and 2018. More recently, the spread of ASF since 2021 has exacerbated the situation, resulting in 12,887 reported dead pigs and the culling of 22,170 pigs this year alone, leading to an estimated loss of Rs. 250 crore.
Farmers continue to call for support to address these challenges and revive the pig farming industry in Mizoram.
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