Protecting pig resources from African swine fever in north eastern India

Abstract

African Swine Fever (ASF) is a highly contagious and lethal viral disease affecting domestic pigs and wild boars. First detected in India in 2020, ASF quickly spread across the north eastern states, severely impacting pig populations and rural economies. North eastern India, culturally and economically dependent on pig farming, is particularly vulnerable due to its predominantly small-scale, backyard-based farming systems, rich indigenous breeds, and structural inadequacies. The region suffers from uneven veterinary infrastructure and limited organized trade systems, hindering effective disease management. ASF outbreaks in Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram,
and Manipur have disproportionately impacted tribal pig farmers, especially smallholders, due to inadequate biosecurity, sub-optimal outbreak response, including compensation. Informal pig trade and poor carcass disposal practices further amplify disease risks, with potential spillover into wildlife populations, threatening local biodiversity, including endangered species like pygmy hogs. Given the absence of reliable vaccine for the diseases, comprehensive, multi-sectoral prevention strategies are critical, emphasizing farm-level biosecurity, strengthened veterinary surveillance, regulated pig trade, fair compensation, and robust public awareness. Addressing deep-rooted systemic and ecological challenges through tailored, science-based policies and sustainable veterinary frameworks
will ensure ASF control, protecting pig farming as an essential socio-economic and cultural pillar in north eastern India.