STATE: The Department of Animal Resources Development has banned the transportation of pigs from outside the state to and within the state.

K Sasikumar, Special Secretary and Director of the Animal Resources Development Department, informed this news in a circular and said that this ban has been issued for the welfare of pig farmers and to prevent infection among pigs.

The notification states that no pig, alive or dead, may be imported into the state from outside without the Department of Animal Resources Development, Government of Tripura’s consent.

According to Rule 96 of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1960, the Transport of Animals Rules 2001, and Standard Operating Procedures, only vehicle or rail consignments bringing pigs from outside shall be permitted entry into the State.

In that case, Animal Resource Development Department officials will verify the required health and vaccination status of imported pigs.

Therefore, at least 48 hours before the arrival of the consignment containing pigs at the port of entry, the Director of Animal Resources Development should be notified. Apart from pig rearing, pigs cannot be brought from outside to sell meat for commercial reasons.

Further, if any illegal/diseased consignment is found at the entrance of the State, the importer shall have sole responsibility to remove the consignment of pigs from the State.