Participants and others during the awareness camp and piglet distribution programme held at NU:SAS Medziphema, on March 7.
Morung Express News
Kohima | March 7
Considering the significant import dependence on other states for meat, a scientist has emphasised on the necessity for Nagaland to achieve self sufficiency, especially pork.
This was stated by Dr Pranab Jyoti Das, Principal Scientist & Nodal Officer of the Tribal Sub Plan at ICAR-National Research Centre on Pig, Rani Guwahati during an awareness camp and piglet distribution programme was held at NU:SAS Medziphema, on March 7.
The event, organised in collaboration with ICAR-National Research Centre on Pig, Rani Guwahati, aimed to promote the adoption of the Tenyi-vo pig breed and provide support to pig farmers under the Tribal Sub Plan.
In his keynote address, Dr Das said the free distribution of Tenyi vo piglets and related materials such as pig feeds and mineral mixtures, as part of the Tribal Sub Plan initiative was aimed to encourage Naga pig farmers to adopt successful breeding programmes using Tenyi vo, a locally registered breed, and provided insights into the benefits of balanced feed and scientific training for efficient pig farming.
Reiterating the need for self-sufficiency in pig farming, Prof Akali Sema, Pro-Vice Chancellor of NU:SAS Medziphema Campus encouraged the farmers to utilise research facilities available in Nagaland for breeding programmes.
During the farmers-scientist interaction session, the importance of bio-security in pig farms was stressed, along with the risks associated with open rearing and compromised cleanliness. The session also addressed concerns about inbreeding and genetic problems, emphasizing the need for genetic diversity in breeding programmes.
Meanwhile, the farmers expressed their interest in receiving training on artificial insemination, and scientists assured them of free training with certificates that would enable them to access loans for further development.
The event concluded with a remark from Dr M Catherine Rutsa, In-Charge of ICAR-AICRP on Pig, Nagaland Centre, NU:SAS, Medziphema, who pledged to continue conducting awareness programmes to support pig rearing, particularly the Tenyi vo breed.
The programme saw the participation of 85 individuals, including pig farmers and scientists.
