African Swine Fever: A Threat to the Pig Industry in North Eastern Region of India

Pig rearing is crucial in the North Eastern region of India, where pork is a dietary staple. The international borders of the region increase its vulnerability to trans-boundary animal diseases. African Swine Fever (ASF) is a highly contagious and economically devastating disease that has significantly reduced the pig population, heightened food insecurity, and caused severe socioeconomic consequences. Traditional farming practices, inadequate biosecurity, and illegal animal movements exacerbate its spread. Since its initial detection in Assam in 2020, ASF has rapidly spread across the North Eastern states, leading to estimated economic losses between INR 17.875 billion and INR 44.625 billion (USD 242.9 million to USD 606.4 million). Effective control and prevention measures, such as stringent biosecurity protocols, enhanced surveillance, and financial support for farmers, are essential to mitigate impact of ASF and sustain the pig industry in the region. Introduction