Vol. 10, Special Issue 12 (2025)

The COVID-19 pandemic created severe disruptions in livestock production systems, particularly affecting small-scale pig farmers in India. This study investigates constraints perceived by pig farmers in Tamil Nadu during the lockdown and documents the coping strategies adopted. A sample of 50 small-scale pig farmers was surveyed using a pretested interview schedule between January and March 2021. The Problem Confrontation Index (PCI) was used to rank the severity of constraints. Major constraints included swill feed shortages, pork price decline, movement restrictions, labour scarcity and difficulty in selling animals. Farmers adapted by altering feeding schedules, using homemade concentrate mixtures, increasing scavenging and adopting self-treatment due to limited veterinary access. Findings highlight the need for strategic support during emergencies to strengthen pig production systems.