Key Highlights
- More than 3,050 pigs have died in just one month across four districts.
- Siha district bears the brunt with 1,651 deaths and the highest culling count.
- 46 localities have been declared ASF‑infected zones, prompting stringent quarantine.
- The state suffered a Rs 336.49 crore economic loss in 2024 alone.
- Over 100 families received compensation, yet the livelihood of pig farmers remains fragile.
Detailed Insights
The outbreak, driven by the highly contagious African Swine Fever (ASF) virus, intensified during the state’s hot season and sporadic rains, conditions that favor the pathogen’s survival.
In an aggressive containment effort, nearly 1,000 pigs have been culled, a measure that, while controversial, aims to arrest further transmission.
Financially, the disease has wreaked havoc: Rs 336.49 crore in losses for 2024, following a steep decline from Rs 334.14 crore in 2021 and Rs 210.32 crore in 2022.
Local authorities continue to monitor the situation, deploying quarantine protocols around infected zones and offering compensation to affected families.
Key Concepts
- African Swine Fever (ASF): A highly contagious viral disease that devastates domestic and wild pig populations, with no vaccine available.
- Culling: The systematic slaughtering of animals to prevent disease spread.
- ASF‑infected zone: Geographical areas officially declared to harbor the virus, subject to restrictions.
- Quarantine: Isolation measures imposed on animals, farmers, and vehicles to curb disease spread.
- Compensation: Financial aid provided by the government to offset the losses of pig owners.