Agartala, Sept 16: The state Animal Resource Development Minister Sudhangshu Das on Tuesday addressed the Annual Review Meeting (2024–25) of the All India Coordinated Research Project (AICRP) on Piggery, held at Pragya Bhavan, Agartala. The event brought together experts, policymakers, and stakeholders from across the country to discuss the future of piggery and its growing importance in strengthening nutritional security and rural economies.
In his keynote address, Minister Das said piggery plays a dual role in Tripura—meeting the nutritional requirements of the population while providing a sustainable livelihood for thousands of families. “This sector not only meets the dietary needs of our people but also offers a sustainable source of income for thousands,” he stated.
Pointing to Tripura’s unique consumption patterns, the minister highlighted that nearly 98 percent of the state’s population consumes non-vegetarian food, resulting in consistently high demand for pig meat. He added that more than 37 percent of farmers in the state are engaged in pig farming, underlining its central role in rural livelihoods.
Describing piggery as a “low-investment, high-return” enterprise, Das stressed its economic viability and urged the youth to explore opportunities in the sector. He said pig farming could be a strong tool for fostering self-reliance, entrepreneurship, and economic empowerment in the state’s rural communities.
The meeting also saw discussions on new technologies, improved breeds, and strategies to boost pig productivity, which could further strengthen food security and improve incomes of livestock farmers.
