5-Day Pig Farming Entrepreneurship Training for Rural Livelihoods at IVRI

ICAR-IVRI Bareilly launches a 5-day pig farming entrepreneurship training for rural livelihoods to empower farmers and promote sustainable livestock ventures.

Introduction

In an inspiring move towards empowering rural communities and promoting low-investment, high-return livelihood options, the Indian Veterinary Research Institute (ICAR-IVRI), Izatnagar, has inaugurated a 5-day pig farming entrepreneurship training for rural livelihoods. Held from 21st to 25th July 2025, the initiative is part of the Scheduled Caste Sub-Plan (SCSP), under the aegis of the Joint Directorate of Extension Education.

This intensive hands-on program is designed to enable small and marginal farmers, especially from underrepresented communities, to explore entrepreneurial opportunities in pig farming—a rapidly growing sector in India’s livestock economy.

Groundbreaking Livelihood Initiative

The training program was formally inaugurated by Dr. Roopasi Vathri, Joint Director of Extension Education, ICAR-IVRI. Addressing a gathering of enthusiastic rural participants, she emphasized the vital role of pig farming in sustainable income generation for smallholder farmers and rural women.

“Pig farming requires minimal investment compared to other livestock enterprises. Even landless or marginal farmers, particularly women, can significantly boost their income through this venture,” said Dr. Vathri, reinforcing the program’s inclusive vision.

Expert Guidance and Technical Empowerment

Dr. Mahesh Chandra, former Head of the Department of Extension Education and currently Principal Scientist at IVRI, encouraged the participants to pursue pig farming with dedication and interest.

He noted that entrepreneurial success is driven more by passion and knowledge than capital, and this training aims to bridge that very knowledge gap.

Dr. Ram Singh Suman, Principal Scientist and Training Coordinator, motivated trainees to actively apply their learnings in the field and stay connected with IVRI for further guidance. He added that the institute is fully equipped to support farmers with technical solutions related to pig farming.

Participants were also informed about the availability of scientific literature, consultation support, and on-site assistance for those taking up pig rearing as a livelihood.

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A Look Inside the 5-Day Training

The training encompasses:

• Practical sessions on pig housing, feeding, breeding, and healthcare
• Cost-benefit analysis of small-scale piggery units
• Market linkage strategies and local demand insights
• Exposure to success stories of pig entrepreneurs in rural India
• Guidance on accessing government support and veterinary services

This affordable pig farming course for aspiring livestock entrepreneurs is curated specifically for socio-economically disadvantaged groups under the SCSP.

Farmer Participation and Regional Reach

A total of 25 farmers from Bareilly district (22 male and 3 female) are participating in this training. The inclusion of women highlights the program’s gender-inclusive approach toward rural entrepreneurship through pig farming.

Their active participation reflects growing interest among grassroots communities in how to start pig farming business training in India, especially in regions where traditional agriculture yields diminishing returns.

World Zoonoses Day 2025 and Public Health Awareness

The training program also overlaps with the institute’s larger mission of zoonotic disease awareness, particularly during the World Zoonoses Day awareness and training programs 2025. Participants are being sensitized on:

• Preventive animal healthcare
• Vaccination awareness campaigns
• Biosecurity protocols in piggery operations

This integrated knowledge sharing is essential in controlling zoonoses, improving productivity, and protecting both animal and human health.

Context: Why Pig Farming?

India’s pork market is estimated to reach ₹20,000 crore by 2030, with demand driven by North-Eastern states and tribal regions. Pig farming offers:

• Fast returns: Pigs grow faster and reproduce more than other livestock
• Low capital requirement
• Minimal land dependency
• High nutritional output per rupee spent

As per the National Livestock Census, the pig population has been rising steadily in states where structured training and government support exist.

External Support & Resources

Rural entrepreneurs aspiring to launch piggery businesses often lack structured support. This program fills that gap by offering:

• Free training
• Practical exposure
• Veterinary consultation
• Post-training guidance from experts

Additionally, the latest veterinary vaccine rollout news from ICAR-IVRI India ensures that new pig farmers are well-informed about disease prevention, animal husbandry innovations, and market trends.

Expert View: Agripreneurship and Self-Reliance

Agricultural economist Dr. K.C. Bansal noted in a recent interview that “Entrepreneurship in livestock is central to India’s rural economic revival, especially with the PM’s focus on Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India). Pig farming, if scaled with training and health awareness, can generate sustainable income for SC/ST and landless families.”

Internal & External Learning Links

To help learners, farmers, and students expand their knowledge on related topics, here are valuable resources:

• 📘 NCERT Courses
• 📰 Current Affairs
• 📒 Downloadable Notes
• ❓ MCQs for Practice
• 🎥 Educational Videos
• 📚 Syllabus Coverage
• 📥 Free NCERT PDFs
• 🧠 Mind Maps for Fast Revision
• 🌐 Build a School Website with Mart Ind Infotech

Conclusion

The 5-day pig farming entrepreneurship training for rural livelihoods at ICAR-IVRI is a pioneering model in inclusive, skill-based agricultural transformation. It brings together scientific expertise, grassroots involvement, and entrepreneurial energy to build a more resilient, self-reliant rural India.

Programs like these exemplify how affordable pig farming courses for aspiring livestock entrepreneurs can uplift marginalized communities and reshape the economic narrative of Indian villages.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the focus of the 5-day pig farming entrepreneurship training for rural livelihoods?
   It aims to empower SC/ST and rural farmers with practical pig farming skills for income generation.
2. Where is the pig farming training being held?
   At ICAR-IVRI, Izatnagar, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh.
3. Who can participate in affordable pig farming courses at IVRI?
   SC/ST farmers and rural youth, especially those with low income, are prioritized.
4. Is pig farming viable for women and small landholders?
   Yes. The training demonstrates how women and landless farmers can earn from pig rearing.
5. What support is provided after the training?
   Continued consultation, literature, and help in veterinary issues from ICAR-IVRI.
6. How does pig farming help rural livelihoods?
   With minimal investment, farmers can scale pig farming quickly for consistent income.
7. What is included in how to start pig farming business training in India?
   Housing, breeding, feeding, vaccination, business planning, and marketing strategies.
8. What is the role of ICAR-IVRI in zoonoses awareness?
   They run World Zoonoses Day awareness and training programs 2025 to educate farmers.
9. How can I get updates on latest veterinary vaccine rollout news from ICAR-IVRI India?
   Through IVRI’s official site and newsletters.
10. Are there digital resources available to support pig farming education?
    Yes. Edunovations provides courses, videos, PDFs, and more to complement this training.