Effect of Weaning Management on Economics of Piglet Production under Farm Condition of Assam

Abstract

The present study was carried out on 20 T&D (Tamworth x Desi) sows and their piglets (182 piglets), with an objective to compare the economics of piglet production under early weaning (at 28, 35 and 42 days) age with the traditional weaning practice at 56 days of age. Piglets weaned at 28, 35 and 42 days of age were fed prestarter and starter rations with skim milk powder from 2 to 3 weeks and 4 to 6 weeks respectively, whereas similar rations without skim milk powder were fed to the piglets weaned at 56 days of age. Piglets of all the weaning groups were identified and reared up to 13 weeks of age. The economic analysis of piglet production was done on the basis of one sow unit and for calculation of inputs; the cost of feed consumed by one sow during the production cycle and by the piglets of one litter from birth to 13th weeks were combined. Output value was estimated on the basis of the total live weight produced from one sow unit. Economic analysis in terms of Net profit, Net profit /piglet, Input Output Ratio and Benefit Cost Ratio (BCR) were significantly better in pigs under early weaning (28 and 35 days) management compared to late weaning age (42 days or traditional weaning age of 56 days). From the study it is concluded that early weaning of piglets at 28 or 35 days with proper care and feeding management is economical over late weaning (42 or 56 days).