Experts suggest farmers to promote piggery in EJH

SHILLONG, April 10: Director of ICAR–National Research Centre on Pig, Dr. V.K. Gupta, has encouraged farmers in East Jaintia Hills to promote piggery farming as a viable business venture. He emphasized that pig farming can help make Meghalaya self-sufficient in pork production and improve the socio-economic conditions of farmers in the region.
Speaking at a recent Research-Extension-Farmers Interface Meeting and Input Distribution Programme, Dr. Gupta urged farmers to adopt piggery with a commercial mindset, noting its potential to boost livelihoods and contribute to state’s food security.
EJH Additional Deputy Commissioner, JU Kharpuri, congratulated the farmers for their continued efforts and encouraged them to expand their piggery ventures by gaining technical knowledge from relevant departments. She highlighted the growing demand for farm produce from remote areas, driven by increasing health consciousness among consumers.
Kharpuri urged farmers to maintain their momentum and continue improving agricultural practices, with the vision of making East Jaintia Hills self-sufficient in agriculture and allied sectors.
District Veterinary Officer, Dr. M. Lamare, pointed out that piggery in EJH is currently below expectations. He stressed the importance of outreach programmes like this one to reach more farmers and raise awareness.
He advised farmers to adopt scientific pig-rearing practices, including proper treatment, vaccination, and feeding. He also highlighted the benefits of artificial insemination, which would allow farmers to focus on sows without the need to rear boars.