Newmai News Network
Aizawl | August 26
Mizoram Animal Husbandry and Veterinary, minister Dr. K. Beichhua on Monday called for a collective effort to check "African swine fever" and other pig diseases in Mizoram.
Addressing a meeting at Mizo National Front (MNF) office here, Beichhua said that the state government has already sounded red alert for "African swine fever" following its outbreak in neighbouring Myanmar.
"A collective effort should be made to prevent the outbreak of the African swine fever and Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS)," he said.
The minister also said that import of pigs and piglets has been already banned and all district magistrates have been instructed to be alerted.
He then said that the state government also sought cooperation from the largest civil body, Central Young Mizo Association (C-YMA) and is presently working hand in hand with the association to check swine diseases and ban pigs import.
According to the minister, PRRS hit the state in 2013, 2016 and 2018, killing thousands of pigs.
Beichhua also said that the state government is taking measures to have sufficient supply of meat or meat products.
According to him, 35 per cent of the state's total meat consumption is home produce.
"Several detailed project reports have been submitted to make Mizoram become self sufficiency in meat or meat products," he said.
Beichhua, who also holds the portfolio of Excise and Narcotics said the state government is relentlessly making effort to curb drugs and alcohol in the state.
"The state government is working hand in hand with the churches, NGOs and Assam Rifles to combat drugs and alcohol", he further said.
He added that the government will set up state of the art rehabilitation centres for addicts.
