Piggery business

Question

Piggery business

Sathiyavarsha K · Answer

Pig farming (piggery business) is considered one of the most profitable livestock businesses if managed scientifically, because pigs grow fast, reproduce quickly, and their meat (pork) has strong demand in India as well as in export markets.

🔹 Why Piggery is Profitable

Fast growth rate – pigs reach market weight (80–100 kg) in 7–8 months.

High reproduction – a sow gives 8–12 piglets in one litter, 2 times a year.

Less investment, high return – pigs eat kitchen waste, farm by-products, maize, etc.

Market demand – pork consumption is high in NE states, Goa, Kerala, and export (Vietnam, China).

🔹 Basic Requirements

Housing (Pig Sty)

Well-ventilated, dry, with proper drainage.

Space per pig: 8–10 sq. ft. (growing pig).

Breeds

Indian: Ghungroo, Ankamali.

Exotic/Improved: Large White Yorkshire, Landrace, Hampshire, Duroc.

Crossbreeds give better growth and meat quality.

Feeding

Main diet: maize, broken rice, rice bran, wheat bran.

Protein: soybean meal, groundnut cake, fish meal.

Minerals + salt (for growth & reproduction).

Clean drinking water always.

Health Care

Vaccination (swine fever, FMD).

Deworming every 2–3 months.

Keep sty clean to avoid disease.

🔹 Investment & Returns (Example: 10 Sows + 1 Boar)

Shed + setup: ₹2.5–3 lakh.

Cost of pigs: ₹1–1.5 lakh.

Feed & medicine (1 year): ₹3–3.5 lakh.

Total cost (yearly): ₹7–8 lakh.

Returns: 10 sows → 180–200 piglets/year.

If each piglet sold @ ₹3,000 → ~₹6 lakh.

If grown to 80–100 kg and sold @ ₹120–150/kg → even higher income (₹12–15 lakh).

🔹 Government Support

NABARD provides subsidy 25–35% under National Livestock Mission (NLM).

Banks (SBI, PNB, RRB) give livestock loans.

Training available from KVK (Krishi Vigyan Kendra) and Veterinary Universities.