author(s)
N Manoranjan Singh, Kabin Medhi, Shankar Hemanta Gogoi and Bedanta Pathak

abstract
The present study was conducted in Dima Hasao district of Assam, hilly terrain region in North Eastern state of India to assess the reproductive, growth performance and carcass traits of pigs raised under existing low input tribal backyard pig production system. Using an interview based structure pre-tested questionnaire, a collection of data pertaining to 150 tribal pig farmers across 15 villages in randomly selected five blocks viz., Maibang, Diyungbra, Harangajao, Mahur and New Sangbar, respectively (September, 2019 to April, 2020). Assessment of reproductive performance (n=28), growth performance (86) and carcass traits (n=12) were utilized in this study. Results obtained in this study were age at puberty, age at first conception and age at first farrowing were statistically significant (P<0.01) lower in local pigs than the crossbred pigs. However, inter farrowing interval and farrowing rate were significantly (P<0.05) higher observed value in local pigs. Average litter size at birth and litter size at weaning has statistically significant (P<0.05) higher litter performance of crossbred pigs as compared to the local pigs. The pre-weaning and post weaning growth rate was significantly (P<0.05) higher value in the crossbred pigs. There was no significant differences (P<0.01) in pre-weaning and post-weaning mortality between the local and crossbred pigs. Back fat thickness, loin eye area and lean meat content % were significantly (P<0.05) different observed value in the studied. However, there was no statistically significant difference (P>0.05) in observed value of dressing percentage between crossbred and local pigs. It may be concluded that low input tribal backyard pig production system has a huge potential scope for nutritional security and sustainable livelihood at every household, unless and until major emphasized need to be addressed in health care management, proper nutrition, housing system, conservation and environmental factors under changing climate influencing the performance of pigs and more profitability in these region.