Tripura introduces artificial insemination in pigs, empowers farmers with training

By Our Correspondent

Agartala, March 25, 2025

In a groundbreaking move to modernize pig farming, Tripura has launched its first-ever Artificial Insemination (AI) initiative for pigs, coupled with a farmer training program. The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) for the NEH Region, Tripura Centre, Lembucherra, spearheaded the initiative, which commenced today with a three-day training session at the Bagma Agri Producer Company Limited (BAPCL) office.

As many as 30 farmers from across Tripura gathered to receive hands-on training in AI techniques, a development expected to enhance livestock breeding efficiency in the state. Dr. Sourabh Deori, Senior Scientist and Principal Investigator of the All India Coordinated Research Project (AICRP) on Pigs at ICAR-RC NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya, played a pivotal role in rolling out the initiative. He emphasized that AI will help mitigate the risk of sexually transmitted diseases in pigs, including Swine Fever and Foot and Mouth Disease, while also boosting genetic diversity. Select farmers from this training will later undergo advanced training in Meghalaya.

The inaugural session witnessed the presence of several key figures, including Dr. B.U. Choudhury, Head of ICAR Tripura Centre, Dr. Farukul Islam, CEO of BAPCL, and Sudip Majumder, MD of BAPCL. Their participation reinforced the importance of AI in improving pig farming practices in the region. Farmers showed enthusiasm for the new technology, expressing eagerness to implement AI techniques to improve productivity and sustainability.

Dr. Choudhury stated that the initiative marks a transformative phase in Tripura’s pig farming sector. He urged farmers to embrace AI technology for enhanced breeding efficiency and economic gains.

With this pioneering effort, Tripura is poised to revolutionize pig farming, fostering better livestock management and increased profitability for local farmers.

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