Archive · 24 Jun 2025
African Swine Fever Decimates Assam's Pig Population
Imagine a bad flu that only pigs can get, called African Swine Fever.
It started in Assam, India, in 2020 and has made a lot of pigs sick and caused many to die or be culled.
Because of this, the number of pigs has gone down a lot.
This is because many pig farmers have had to stop their business, and it’s hard to get help from insurance companies.
Scientists are trying to create a vaccine, but it's been tricky because the virus changes quickly.
Even though it's a tough situation, the government is still helping pig farmers with money.
African Swine Fever (ASF) has significantly reduced Assam's pig population.
The pig population has dropped by 8 lakh in the last five years due to ASF outbreaks.
The disease was first reported in Assam in May 2020 and has resurged recently.
Lack of bio-security in pig farms contributes to the disease spread.
The state government provides financial assistance to pig rearers affected by ASF.
- Who
- The pig population in Assam and pig farmers.
- What
- African Swine Fever has significantly reduced the pig population in Assam.
- When
- The disease was first reported in May 2020, with recent outbreaks.
- Where
- Assam, India.
- Why
- Due to outbreaks of African Swine Fever, causing deaths and culling of pigs.
Pig Farmers Facing Devastation
Government's Support for Farmers
Financial Burden
Pig Farmers Facing Devastation
Pig farmers have incurred major losses and have quit the business, compounded by a lack of insurance.
Government's Support for Farmers
The government continues to provide financial assistance.
- Pig Population Decline
- 8 lakhs in 5 years
- First Reported
- May 2020
- Current Population
- Approximately 13 lakhs
- Epicentres Detected in 2022
- 67
- Financial Assistance last FY
- Rs 8 crore
- Assistance Beneficiaries
- Around 600 pig rearers