CM launches scheme for pig farmers

NONGPOH, Aug 31: Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Wednesday launched the Rural Backyard Piggery Scheme under the National Livestock Mission during a programme in Byrnihat on Wednesday.
The programme was attended by Umsning MLA Jason Sawkmie Mawlong, Jirang MLA Sosthenes Sohtun, officials from Animal Husbandry and Veterinary department as well as district administration, and pig farmers.
In his address during the programme, the chief minister said the government, through the scheme, envisions to tap the opportunities by ensuring that the farmers earn sustainable livelihood through different livestock farming activities.
He informed that despite Meghalaya acquiring 18,000 MT of pork from different states, there still is a shortfall in supply and demand. However, through the piggery scheme, the state envisions to address the shortage of pork supply, the CM said.
It may be mentioned that under this mission, interest-free loan was provided to pig farmers.
So far, 250 piggery cooperative societies have availed loans amounting to Rs 43.67 crore.
Envisaged to benefit 6,000 farmers and increase pork production in Meghalaya, four piglets — three female and one male — will be distributed to farmers to promote pig breeding under this scheme.
This livestock package is worth Rs. 25,000 per beneficiary.