Department of Veterinary and Animal Husbandry Extension Education, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (GADVASU), Ludhiana organized a five day Pig farming training for the farmers of Punjab and neighboring states from 3-7 Feb, 2014. About 76 farmers participated in this training course. Dr R.S Sahota, Director of Extension Education, GADVASU said that the challenges faced by our country in securing the food as well as nutritional security to fast growing population need an integrated approach for livestock farming. Among the various livestock species, piggery is most potential source of meat production and more efficient feed converters after the broiler. He further advised the trained youth to have proper planning in connection to land, funds and availability of loans etc. Dr H K Verma said that experts from College of Veterinary Science delivered their lectures on various aspects of pig farming. He further added that after getting such training from the university, the unemployed youth can start their own enterprise, which on one hand can provide the needed employment and on the other hand bring diversification in agriculture. The farmers were instructed to construct cheap but comfortable sheds for their pigs which help them in better hygienic conditions and excellent management. Major part of the expenditure in pig farming is on feeding. The farmers were guided to make economical feed. The farmers were trained to differentiate between healthy and sick animals. Role of regular vaccination, deworming and hygiene in prevention of diseases was stressed. The first aid methods for various ailments were taught and practical demonstrations were held. Tips for timely detection of heat and care of pregnant and new born animals were emphasized. Dr. J.S. Bhatti HOD veterinary Extension Education said that the department organized training courses on different livestock professions on regular intervals. Farmers should keep in touch with department for any further query.Dr. Udeybir Singh and Dr. J.S. Hundal course coordinators of the training informed that all the farmers showed great interest in learning new technicalities of pig farming.
