Mizoram's Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Minister, C Lalsawivunga, announced on 9 October that the state plans to declare the African Swine Fever (ASF) outbreak a "state disaster."
This decision is part of ongoing legal and administrative processes. The announcement was made during an event where compensation was distributed to families affected by the culling of pigs. The state government is seeking support from the Centre to obtain necessary drugs and vaccines, including importing them if needed.
Lalsawivunga stated that Mizoram intends to propose including pig culling compensation under the Action Plan on Assistance to States for Control of Animal Diseases (ASCAD) for the 2025–2026 fiscal year. The state has also submitted a proposal to the Centre, requesting a change in the current 50:50 cost-sharing arrangement for compensation to a 90:10 split. This adjustment aims to reduce the financial burden on the state. All northeastern states are expected to collectively support this revised funding model.
The minister revealed that ₹263.32 lakh has been disbursed as partial compensation for pigs culled in 2022. This amount covers 25 per cent of the total compensation, benefiting 1,847 families, with the remaining 75 per cent due soon. District administrations will manage the compensation distribution process. Champhai district, bordering Myanmar, is the most affected, with 490 families to receive compensation. Lawngtlai and Aizawl districts follow, with 386 and 347 families, respectively.
The ASF outbreak in 2023 has worsened, with 13,836 pig deaths and 23,135 culled so far, as per the state’s Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Department. Although daily fatalities have decreased recently, with only five reported across four districts on Wednesday, culling efforts continue. That day, 82 pigs were culled in Hnahthial district, particularly in the villages of Rotlang East, Pangzawl, and Thiltlang.
As of Wednesday, 245 villages across Mizoram have been declared ASF-infected areas. Authorities are focusing on managing the outbreak and minimising its impact on affected communities. The state continues to push for central support and financial assistance to manage the crisis effectively and support the affected families.
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