Shillong: The Meghalaya government is weighing a temporary ban on pig imports to stop the spread of African Swine Fever. Local farmers are hurting. Recurring disease outbreaks have triggered a sharp drop in pork sales across the state.
Mawkynrew MLA Banteidor Lyngdoh pushed for the move after meeting with Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Minister Sanbor Shullai on Thursday. Lyngdoh argued that outside stock fuels the spread of the virus. He wants the government to take a firm stand. Any restriction should stay in place for three to four months before a formal review occurs.
"The minister assured that the government would examine the possibility of temporarily stopping pig imports and, if required, issue an official notification," Lyngdoh said. A delegation plans to meet Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma within two weeks to lock down the plan.
The state intends to track the situation while pushing residents to buy local meat. Officials hope this move protects the farming sector from further collapse.
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