Concerns Rise Over Illegal Pig Supply in Jorhat Amid ASF Ban

Local Pig Farmers Alarmed by Illegal Trade

Jorhat, June 6: Pig farmers in Titabor, located in the Jorhat district, are expressing significant worries regarding the ongoing illegal importation of pigs from outside Assam, despite a government-enforced ban intended to curb the spread of African Swine Fever (ASF).

The ban, implemented by the Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Department, restricts the movement of pigs beyond national highways. However, local farmers claim that dishonest traders are circumventing these regulations, smuggling in pigs from other states without oversight.

A local pig farmer reported, “Every week, trucks filled with pigs from outside the state arrive here. These animals could potentially carry the ASF virus, yet they receive health clearance in a mere 3–4 hours.” In contrast, local farmers must endure a waiting period of 15–21 days for their livestock to undergo testing and receive clearance.

This disparity in clearance times has led to growing frustration among the local farming community, who feel that the system favors external suppliers.

They argue that the Animal Husbandry Department is neglecting the dangers associated with these rapid clearances, thereby jeopardizing both the local industry and public health.

One farmer stated, “This situation is jeopardizing our livelihoods. It seems like a calculated effort to undermine local pig farmers and provide an unfair edge to outside traders.”

The farmers are calling on the state government to take immediate action against the illegal transportation of pigs. They warn that if no measures are implemented, they will be compelled to organize protests to safeguard their livelihoods and avert a potential health crisis.