Mizoram's Battle Against African Swine Fever: A Costly Crisis

Mizoram faced a significant economic setback with a Rs 336.49 crore loss in 2024 due to African Swine Fever (ASF). The ongoing outbreak has cost the state Rs 896.69 crore since 2021, claiming thousands of pigs. However, recent data suggests the outbreak is beginning to subside.

Mizoram's Animal Husbandry and Veterinary department has reported a devastating economic loss of Rs 336.49 crore in 2024, attributed to the African Swine Fever (ASF) outbreak. The ongoing crisis, which began in 2021, has accumulated an enormous financial toll of Rs 896.69 crore on the state.

Since the outbreak's inception at Lungsen village in Lunglei district on March 21, 2021, over 33,417 pigs have died, with thousands more culled to contain the spread. Recent statistics indicate that ASF's grip is loosening, bringing hope of a gradual recovery for the state's swine industry.

Mizoram had previously been struck by the Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS) in various years, adding to the state's challenges and underscoring the need for robust animal health measures.

(With inputs from agencies.)