Artificial insemination in pig for enhancing the pig productivity in North Eastern Hill region

Abstract

Artificial insemination in northeast India has been introduced only recently but the response from the farmers is quite favourable. It has already taken off in parts of Assam, Meghalaya and Mizoram with enormous success. In Nagaland, ICAR has introduced this technology and is getting popular among farmers. ICAR Nagaland has carried out a total of around 2,500 inseminations from 2013 till 2019 and produced around 20,000 piglets. The average litter size has increased from 7.15 to 10.21 as compared to natural service. The farrowing rate has also stayed at an average of 75% through the period. The cost of AI is also 1/10th of the cost of natural service. There are piecemeal efforts mainly by research institution and lack of interest among various state departments for its implementation. In order to replicate the successes achieved in different countries, a proper understanding of the technique, its adaptability to local conditions and the regulations that need to be put in place need to be explored in India. The establishment of support services is vital to achieve success. To reap the full potential of this technology, concerted efforts are needed from all stakeholders. The technology has the potential for enhancing the profitability of pig farming in sustainable way.