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Mizoram is currently facing a severe outbreak of African Swine Fever (ASF), which has resulted in the deaths of over 7,300 pigs and the culling of nearly 2,900 others since mid-March 2025. The disease has impacted 2,781 families across 116 villages and localities in seven districts of the state, according to officials from Mizoram’s Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Department.
The outbreak shows no signs of abating, with recent daily reports including 19 pig deaths and 25 culled on a single recent day alone. Siaha district, bordering Myanmar, is the worst affected, reporting 3,255 pig deaths and culling 935 pigs. Lawngtlai and Khawzawl districts have also been heavily impacted, with thousands of pig deaths and hundreds culled.
African Swine Fever is a highly contagious viral disease with up to 100% fatality among pigs. It spreads rapidly and poses a serious threat to the pig-rearing communities and the state’s economy, given that pork is widely consumed in the northeastern region. Currently, there is no available vaccine for ASF in India, and prevention relies heavily on containment through culling and biosecurity measures.
The state government has declared affected areas and imposed restrictions on the movement and trade of pigs and pork products to contain the spread. Compensation schemes are underway to aid affected farmers, although officials cite challenges due to limited financial support and the endemic nature of the disease. Plans are in motion to improve diagnostic infrastructure and explore vaccine options from abroad, such as Vietnam, where experimental vaccines are being developed.
Mizoram also participates in the Pandemic Fund Project phase I, aimed at strengthening disease diagnostic capabilities. A team from the National Institute of Veterinary Epidemiology and Disease Informatics (NIVEDI) is expected to visit Mizoram to assist in strategizing long-term solutions.
Disclaimer: This article is based on information available as of August 2025 from state officials and news reports. The situation regarding the African Swine Fever outbreak in Mizoram is evolving, and figures and details may change as new updates emerge. Readers are advised to consult official sources for the latest information.
