Government Launches Rural Backyard Piggery Scheme for Farmers

Conrad K. Sangma, the chief minister of Meghalaya said that the "Progress" scheme of the state strives to ensure that farmers make a sustainable livelihood through various livestock agricultural activities.

Launching the ambitious flagship programme for the farmers – “Rural Backyard Piggery Scheme” under National Livestock Mission at Byrnihat in Ri-Bhoi district, the Chief Minister said that the government is successfully enabling farmers to generate income and enjoy economic prosperity through a variety of welfare schemes.

He told media that Meghalaya imports 18,000 MT of pork from various States and that there is a significant imbalance between supply and demand. Through the piggery scheme, the state intends to fix the shortage of pork supply.

He stated that the government's flagship initiative, "Progress," has been designed to assure the prosperity of low-income people through livestock intervention, including pig farming, poultry farming, etc.

The government has allocated Rs 15.18 crore for the first phase of the Rural Backyard Piggery Scheme, which will be used to provide 6000 families with four high-yielding improved varieties.

The chief minister of Meghalaya said that an additional Rs 25 crore will be set aside to launch the program's second phase.

The "Meghalaya Piggery Mission," one of the largest piggery development programmes, is being carried out by the government to make the state self-sufficient in pork.

A zero-interest loan is offered as part of our goal to build up pig breeding and fattening operations. Loans of Rs. 43.67 crore have already been obtained by 250 piggery cooperative societies.

The government launched the "Rural Backyard Piggery Scheme," funded by the Central Government under the National Livestock Mission and also the State Government, to further explore the possibilities of the piggery sector.

The scheme was launched on August 10 in Samanda block in the East Garo Hills district. The scheme received a good response and appreciation from farmers.

Under this scheme, farmers will receive 4 piglets—3 female and 1 male—to encourage pig breeding and supplement their monthly income. Each beneficiary will receive a livestock package worth Rs 25,000.

6000 poor and marginal farmers are expected to gain from this scheme, which will also enhance the state's pork production.