Navigating Challenges in Piggery Enterprises: Insights from Pashu Vigyan Incubator

Abstract

Piggery enterprises are integral to the global agricultural sector, contributing significantly to protein supply, food security, and rural  economic development. However, these enterprises face numerous challenges that hinder their growth and sustainability. This study  explores the multifaceted constraints affecting piggery enterprises, with a specific focus on the barriers encountered by pig farmer  trainees who participated in the Entrepreneurship Development Program (EDP) on pig farming, organized by the ICAR-IVRI Pashu 

Vigyan Incubator. Through a systematic review of literature and empirical data analysis, this research categorizes the key challenges into  personal, socioeconomic, technological, and institutional domains. Notable constraints include financial limitations, disease management  complexities, environmental regulations, restricted market access, and technological deficiencies. Institutional barriers, such as limited  awareness and accessibility to government schemes, inadequate training facilities, and ineffective extension services emerged as  significant impediments. Marketing challenges, including low pig market prices, difficulties in securing buyers, and the lack of cold  storage facilities, further exacerbate these constraints. An evaluation of the EDP highlighted concerns such as insufficient outreach and  an overemphasis on lecture-based instruction. However, strengths of the program included expert guidance, the approachable nature of  trainers, and a conducive learning environment. By integrating participant feedback and addressing key challenges, this study provides  critical insights and strategic recommendations to enhance the sustainability and resilience of piggery enterprises.