Mizoram has begun distributing compensation to pig farmers for pigs culled in 2024 to prevent the spread of African Swine Fever (ASF).
The statewide initiative will see a total of ₹15.59 crore disbursed to affected farmers.
During a ceremony held at his office, state Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Minister C. Lalsawivunga handed over a total of ₹89.39 lakh to an initial group of 10 beneficiaries.
Following the launch, distribution began simultaneously in all district capitals across Mizoram.
Speaking at the event, Lalsawivunga said that the annual loss since the first ASF outbreak was reported in south Mizoram's Lunglei in March 2021, has severely impacted the state's economy.
Following the Centre's directives, compensation is provided only for culled pigs, with a 50-50 contribution from both the Central and state governments, he said.
Since only 25 per cent of the required funds for 2022-23 and 2023-24 were received, beneficiaries were previously paid at that reduced rate.
The Minister said that the state government, recognizing the severity of the losses, has declared ASF a state disaster in 2024, the only state in the country to classify it as a state-specific disaster.
Under this declaration, relief for dead pigs was previously distributed at ₹4,000 per pig, covering up to six pigs per beneficiary, he said.
The Minister further explained that the current disbursement covers 63.65 per cent of the total 2024 culling compensation owed, with efforts underway to secure the remaining balance.
Funds have been transferred to district officers for immediate release via cheque or Direct Beneficiary Transfer (DBT), he added.
The devastating ASF outbreak has claimed over 72,000 pigs, resulting in a substantial financial loss of over ₹1,000 crore for more than 12,500 families since 2021.
Additionally, 52,979 pigs were culled to prevent further spread of the swine disease during the same period.