India’s First Pig Schools

July 4, 2023

Pigs are taking the spotlight in Assam’s Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR) as the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) plans to establish India’s first pig schools. This groundbreaking initiative aims to boost the region’s economy and enhance pig farming practices. The BTC has partnered with the Danish Consortium of Academic Craftmanship (DCAC) and Dalum Landbrugsskole, an academy of agricultural business, to implement this transformative project.

Focusing on Local Conditions and Biosecurity

The BTC authorities recognize the importance of tailoring the courses to suit local conditions and incorporating traditional knowledge about pig-rearing. Furthermore, given the outbreak of African swine fever in Assam and the northeast, the training courses emphasize biosecurity measures. Experts in animal husbandry and piggery are designing shorter courses to equip local farmers with technical know-how and knowledge about biosecurity practices.

Learning from Danish Expertise

To kickstart the initiative, a team from BTC visited Denmark to study the Danish model, and the DCAC team reciprocated by visiting BTR to assess the feasibility of pig schools. As part of the collaboration, 50 farmers will be sent to Denmark to learn various aspects of piggery, including rearing and pork product manufacturing. This exchange of knowledge and expertise will enable the farmers to implement best practices in their pig farming endeavors.

Bodoland Pig Mission: Unlocking Market Potential

The Bodoland Pig Mission, launched less than a year ago, aims to leverage the vast markets in the northeast and neighboring Bhutan. Assam boasts the highest population of pigs in India, making it an ideal location for expanding the piggery industry. Establishing the pig schools is a crucial component of the mission, as it focuses on training, technology demonstration, and skilling based on the Folk School concept.

Meeting the Demand and Going Commercial

The demand for pork in the northeast region is significant, with an annual requirement of 3 lakh metric tonnes. Currently, the region produces less than 1 lakh metric tonnes, leaving a substantial gap to be filled. The pig schools aim to address this shortfall by transforming pig farming from backyard operations to scientific and commercial farming. The BTC’s long-term goal is to position Bodoland as the hub of piggery in the country.

Investing in the Pig Schools and Biosecurity

To ensure the success of the mission, the BTC authorities have allocated ₹17 crore to equip pig farmers with biosecurity kits, disinfectants, spray machines, and boots. These investments will contribute to maintaining the health and safety of the pigs and farmers alike. By prioritizing biosecurity and providing necessary resources, the BTC’s flagship mission is on track to achieve sustainable growth.

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