AGARTALA, July 28 (TIWN): In a bid to inspire farmers for backyard farming, recently in a meeting at Lembucherra, Indian council of Agricultural research (ICAR) Tripura Centre distributed 40 pigs and 600 newly developed chicks among 160 tribal farmers for backyard farming and livelihood improvement purpose.

In this program, 600 poultry birds (one month old) developed at ICAR, Tripura Centre and 40 pigs were distributed among 160 tribal farmers.

Rural Development and Forest minister Naresh Jamatia praised ICAR, Tripura Centre for organizing such type of program and supported the farmers with providing 600 newly developed rural poultry birds as well as 40 good variety pigs.

Speaking at the program, Dr. M. Datta, Joint Director, ICAR Tripura delineated the need and importance of backyard pig and poultry farming in rural areas of Tripura. He informed how a new poultry bird variety had been brought after a long research on breeding among Tripura local bird, colored broiler and Dahlem Red bird at ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region.

However, Dr. Avijit Haldar, Principal Scientist (Livestock Production) of ICAR, Tripura Centre narrated the significance of backyard pig and poultry farming in rural economy. He further explained on naturally available feed resources and diseases’ prevention aspects in backyard pig and poultry birds. He warned the farmers about some diseases which may transmit from pigs to human beings and thus he suggested for adopting good management including cleanliness and sanitation.

The event created huge enthusiasm among the farmers and is expected to bring a great impact on farming community in the locality.