Socio-economic status and constraint’s faced by piggery growers in Ernakulam district of Kerala

Piggery farming is an important livelihood activity in Kerala, contributing to rural income generation and nutritional security. The present study examines the socio-economic profile of pig farmers and the challenges they face in Ernakulam district. The respondents were categorized into three groups based on herd size: small farmers (1-10 pigs, 36%), medium farmers (10-50 pigs, 40%), and large farmers (above 50 pigs, 24%). The demographic analysis revealed that the highest proportion of respondents (23.08%) belonged to the 40-50 and above 60 age groups, followed by 21.15% in the 30-40 age group, 17.31% in the 50-60 group, and 15.38% below 30 years. In terms of experience, 9.09% were novices (<2 years), 10.91% intermediate (2-4 years), 16.36% experienced (4-8 years), 20% advanced (8-10 years), and 16.36% experts (>10 years). Additionally, 14.55% were specialists in specific pig varieties, while 12.73% served as consultants. Occupational patterns showed that 37.78% combined piggery with agriculture and retail/business, 22.2% relied solely on agriculture, 17.78% supplemented farming with part-time employment, 8.89% balanced agriculture with full-time jobs, and 13.33% engaged in technical/skilled trades. Major constraints identified included high feed costs, disease outbreaks, inadequate veterinary services, lack of organized marketing channels, and limited access to credit facilities. The study suggests the need for improved extension services, better healthcare support, and policy interventions to enhance the sustainability and profitability of piggery farming in the region.