Women Empowerment through Pig Farming in Meghalaya

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaJune 23, 2023

Pig farming in Meghalaya, holds great potential for women’s empowerment. This branch of animal husbandry offers significant financial opportunities as one of the most lucrative livestock businesses. Pigs, being prolific breeders, can deliver 10 to 14 piglets in a single birth. Additionally, they have the unique ability to convert inedible feeds, by-products, damaged feed into valuable and nutritious meat.

Red meat is a great source of protein and is very popular, so there is a high demand for pig meat (pork). Because pigs are prolific breeders, the farm’s animal population can quickly double. Furthermore, compared to other livestock in the same category, pigs grow quickly.

In rural areas of Meghalaya, particularly among peasant farmers, both men and women actively practice pig farming. The region’s cultural preference for pork consumption, especially within tribal communities, creates a favourable market for pig farming and production. Pig rearing is deeply ingrained in the household livelihoods system and enjoys high social acceptance.

Festivals and religious occasions often involve the use of pigs, further emphasizing their significance.

One notable advantage for women is that pig farming generates a substantial proportion of rural employment opportunities. Women actively participate in pig farming, contributing to their economic independence and empowerment.

However, some challenges exist, including accessibility and affordability of pig feeds, limited financial products and services for pig farming, the absence of vaccines and quality certification, and transportation difficulties, especially in remote areas. It is crucial to develop the pig farming sector further in order to meet the growing demand for pork and improve the economic conditions of farmers.

Scientific pig farming practices have proven to be economically viable, providing a reliable source of income, particularly for farmers with larger operations. By embracing pig farming as a means of income generation, farmers can enhance and strengthen their financial well-being.

Pig farming holds significant potential for women’s empowerment in Meghalaya. By actively participating in this profitable venture, women can attain economic empowerment, contribute to household income, and play a vital role in meeting the region’s pork demand.

By | Larimon Shylla
PG Student, 1^st year at College of Veterinary Science, Khanapara