Shillong, May 15: The Federation of Khasi Jaintia and Garo People (FKJGP) has urged the state government to take immediate measures to address the growing problems faced by pig and poultry farmers across Meghalaya.
In a representation submitted to Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Minister Sanbor Shullai, the organisation highlighted several challenges affecting local livestock farmers and called for urgent policy intervention.
The FKJGP stated that through its socio-economic reform movement, it has observed that pig and poultry farmers are struggling due to market competition, disease outbreaks, lack of follow-up support from the department, and the absence of organised markets and minimum support prices.
According to the organisation, one of the major concerns is the unrestricted entry of pigs and poultry from outside the state, which are reportedly sold at cheaper rates than locally produced livestock. The FKJGP said this has made it difficult for local farmers to sell their products at profitable prices and demanded stricter checks on the inflow of animals from other states.
The organisation also expressed concern over the spread of African Swine Fever (ASF) and poultry diseases in different parts of Meghalaya. It alleged that the absence of quarantine and isolation centres for incoming livestock has contributed to the spread of diseases, resulting in huge financial losses for farmers. The FKJGP said many farmers have become demotivated and are unable to repay loans due to repeated losses.
Further, the organisation pointed out that although the government conducts training programmes for farmers in various districts and blocks, there is little follow-up support after the training sessions. It claimed that farmers often do not receive adequate assistance from the department during medical emergencies, including the supply of medicines and veterinary support.
The FKJGP also criticised the lack of organised markets and the absence of a Minimum Support Price (MSP) for livestock farmers. It stated that the only active modern pig slaughter facility in the state at present is the Modern Multi-Species Abattoir at Mawlai Mawiong.
Urging the government to treat the matter seriously, the organisation expressed hope that the Veterinary Department under the leadership of the minister would take concrete steps to support and protect local farmers across Meghalaya.
