Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 08 December 2025
A series of training programmes on “Scientific Pig Farming for Rural Livelihoods and Food Security in A&N Islands” was jointly organised by ICAR-Central Island Agricultural Research Institute (CIARI), Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services (AHVS), and ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Nimbudera, from 2–4 December 2025 across North and Middle Andaman.
The first session was held at Samithi Bhavan, Rangat, where 60 participants—mainly local youth, livestock rearers and Pashu Sakhis—took part. Dr. P.A. Bala, Principal Scientist, explained livestock nutrition management, while Dr. Arun Kumar De, Senior Scientist, covered scientific rearing practices, housing and general management. Dr. Aleena Rajan, Veterinary Officer, highlighted strategies for profitable livestock farming and disease prevention in island conditions.
The second programme was conducted at the residence of farmer Sudeep Mazumder in Nimbudera, with over 45 participants. Dr. De briefed farmers on improving returns through scientific pig and goat farming, while Dr. Manoj Kumar, Subject Matter Specialist, shared practical methods for enhancing livestock-based livelihoods. Dr. Bala discussed sustainable rearing practices using locally available feed resources.
The final day of training took place at ICAR-KVK, Nimbudera, attended by 55 farmers and five Pashu Sakhis. Dr. De explained extensive pig-rearing systems and the advantages of using superior germplasm. Dr. Bala highlighted income-generation opportunities through backyard poultry, followed by Dr. Kumar’s session on utilising local resources to address feed scarcity.
At each venue, farmers received feed supplements and dewormers along with guidance on their proper use. Responding to farmer demand, organisers assured that similar capacity-building programmes will continue in North and Middle Andaman in the coming months.
