Kohima: African Swine Fever has hit Kohima. Test reports from the Department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services confirmed the virus in Kiruphema Bawe, Chiechama, and Nerhema villages. The news arrived August 27.
Deputy Commissioner B Henok Buchem acted fast. He declared a 1-km radius around infected spots as an Infected Zone. A 10-km radius now serves as a Surveillance Zone. The order bars all export, import, and movement of live pigs or pork products in these areas.
Markets must close. Butchers must shut their doors. The government mandate covers all butchery shops within the designated zones.
Farmers have work to do. They must stop visitors, disinfect farms daily, and report any strange pig deaths to the department. Carcasses need safe burial. Dumping pigs in open areas or water bodies is banned. "The public has been urged to remain vigilant and refrain from purchasing or consuming meat from unknown sources," the official order stated.
The law has teeth. Violators face prosecution under the Prevention and Control of Infectious and Contagious Diseases in Animals Act, 2009. Authorities will use all relevant legal provisions to stop the spread.
Updated at 28th August 2026 at 9:47am
Official confirmation of the virus came from the Office of the Chief Veterinary Officer in Kohima. The Deputy Commissioner, B Henok Buchem, carries the official designation of NCS.
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