Among farm animals pigs are well recognized and documented as a potential genetic resource for livelihood and social change among the weaker sections of rural community and tribes. In the Nicobar island, the Nicobari pig, locally known as Ha-un, is more or less linked closely with the local culture and tradition. Nicobari pigs are semi-feral in nature and no systematic or scientific management is followed by the tribes.As such, tribals were not aware much about the farming system and the pigs were reared under free-range system. Generally, pigs are not reared for commercial purposes. This breed is well adapted to the local environment of Nicobar and can survive with a very low level of management.
At present, the Nicobari indigenous pig breed is under the threat of extinction and immediate conservation effort is necessary. Efforts have been made to document the farming practices of this breed by Central Island Agricultural Research Institute (CIARI), Port Blair. Data related to management and rearing practices are available based on the survey report. A few scientific data are available regarding the productive and reproductive management of the pigs. Recently CIARI has documented its genotype though 23 FAO recommended microsatellite markers. It was found that the genetic diversity of this pig breed was very high compared to Large White Yorkshire and other European pig breeds.
To document, characterise and explore the potentiality of the genetic diversity of this pig breed, recently the CIARI has procured Nicobari Pigs from its breeding tract and maintaining under intensive system at its main campus.
(Source: CIARI, Port Blair)
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