A specialized training programme focusing on the scientific rearing of Teressa goats and Nicobari pigs was successfully conducted in Great Nicobar, aimed at enhancing livestock productivity and promoting sustainable animal husbandry practices among local farmers.
Organized under the Department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services, the initiative formed part of the broader Goat and Piggery Development Programme designed to conserve and propagate indigenous breeds unique to the Nicobar Islands. The training emphasized modern techniques in breeding, nutrition, disease management, and shelter construction, tailored to the ecological conditions of the region.
The Teressa goat, locally known as “Pookore,” is a hardy, low-input meat breed native to the Nicobar group of islands. Renowned for its adaptability to traditional grazing systems and minimal maintenance requirements, the breed plays a vital role in supporting food security and livelihoods in remote island communities. Participants were educated on breed characteristics, growth patterns, and optimal care strategies to improve meat yield and market value.
Similarly, the Nicobari pig, another indigenous breed, was highlighted for its resilience and suitability to the island’s climate. The training covered aspects such as hygienic pig shelter construction, vaccination protocols, and financial planning for commercial piggery ventures. Farmers were also guided on preparing project reports for institutional financing, enabling access to subsidies and support for scaling operations.
The programme included hands-on demonstrations, expert lectures, and interactive sessions, with participants receiving stipends to encourage active engagement. Officials reiterated the importance of preserving native breeds while integrating scientific methods to boost productivity and income generation.
This initiative reflects the government’s commitment to empowering tribal communities through capacity building and sustainable livestock development. By equipping farmers with practical knowledge and resources, the training aims to strengthen the rural economy and ensure long-term food resilience in the Nicobar Islands.
