The ICAR-National Research Center on Pig (ICAR-NRC on Pig), based in Rani, Guwahati, has concluded a five-day intensive livestock awareness campaign in Assam’s Barpeta district. Held under the Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan, the program ran from June 1 to June 5, 2025, and focused on improving rural pig farming practices, promoting government schemes, and fostering agricultural self-reliance.
The awareness campaign brought together farmers, veterinary professionals, students, and local officials from across the district. It aimed to bridge the knowledge gap in rural livestock farming and encourage scientific methods to improve productivity and income.
Scientific Pig Farming Takes Center Stage
The main theme of the event was the promotion of scientific pig farming. Experts from ICAR-NRC on Pig demonstrated best practices in breeding, feed management, disease control, and housing systems. Moreover, sessions also included practical training on biosecurity and hygienic handling of livestock.
Participants learned how adopting scientific practices could increase pig yield, reduce mortality, and raise profits. The use of low-cost housing models and local feed resources was emphasized to make pig farming more accessible to small-scale farmers.
Government Schemes Promoted for Rural Uplift
The awareness drive also highlighted central and state-level livestock development schemes, including the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), Rashtriya Gokul Mission, and Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund.
Officials guided farmers on how to access financial aid, training support, and veterinary services under these schemes. The event encouraged the formation of farmer producer organizations (FPOs) and self-help groups to strengthen the local livestock economy.
A special session on entrepreneurship in piggery and agri-based startups motivated young participants to consider careers in animal husbandry.
Barpeta Farmers Eager to Adopt New Techniques
Over 300 farmers from villages across Barpeta attended the sessions, showing a keen interest in adopting new livestock practices. However, many shared their experiences and challenges in traditional pig farming.
“Earlier, we had no idea about vaccination or proper feed. These sessions have opened our eyes,” said Rafiq Ali, a farmer from Kalgachia.
Farmers were also introduced to mobile apps and digital platforms for veterinary consultation, disease alerts, and scheme enrollment.
Women Participation on the Rise
A notable aspect of the program was the active participation of women farmers. Training sessions were tailored to address the role of women in managing livestock at the household level. Women attendees were encouraged to take leadership in pig farming cooperatives and income-generation activities.
According to officials, empowering rural women in livestock farming is crucial for long-term sustainability and food security in northeastern India.
Livestock are Vital to Doubling Farmer Income
Speaking on the closing day, Dr. Abhijit Deka, Director of ICAR-NRC on Pig, emphasized the role of livestock in achieving the government’s goal of doubling farmer incomes.
“By training farmers and linking them with the right resources, we can build a self-reliant livestock sector in the Northeast,” he said.
He also appreciated the local administration’s support in mobilizing farmers and organizing the event in remote locations.
Future Plans and Expansion
The success of the campaign in Barpeta has inspired plans to conduct similar drives in other livestock-intensive districts of Assam and neighboring states. Officials are also exploring partnerships with Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) and NGOs to expand outreach.Farmers interested in learning more can visit the ICAR-NRC on Pig official website or contact their local KVK. To stay updated on the Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan, follow updates at agricoop.nic.in.