Adoption of Scientific Pig Rearing Practices: A Study in Jorhat District of Assam

Pig farming is an integral component of rural livelihoods in Assam, contributing significantly to food security, income generation, and nutritional security. Assam accounts for 2.10 million pigs, the highest in India, and pork constitutes nearly 39% of total meat production in the state. Despite this importance, productivity remains low due to limited adoption of scientific practices. The present study was conducted in Jorhat district during April 2024-March 2025, covering 100 randomly selected pig farmers. The study revealed practices related to housing (use of proper flooring, ventilation, and sanitation) and healthcare (vaccination and disease testing) had relatively high adoption while low adoption had been recorded in respect of important practices like providing sufficient space per pig, both indoors and outdoors, with separate areas for feeding and resting, providing access to fresh, clean water at all times, preferably through nipple drinkers etc. Therefore, awareness on these critical management practices by the extension workers is of utmost importance at the present situation for the betterment of this piggery sector and improving the rural economy of Assam.