PETA impact: Use of gestation & farrowing crates in pig farming banned in Rajasthan

In an attempt to put an end to cruel practices deployed in pig farming, the Animal Husbandry Directorate, Rajasthan Government has prohibited the use of gestation and farrowing crates across the state. Notably, the administration has taken up this measure following the appeal from People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India.

As per the circular, all-district joint directors of this department have to coordinate with district administration to ensure compliance of Section 11(1)(e) of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960.

A step towards ending animal cruelty

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Under the ambit of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, keeping any animal in a cage or a receptacle that does not have enough space for its movement is a punishable offence. Both gestation crates and farrowing crates are extremely cruel forms of confinement that prevent pigs from standing or even turning around.

Also known as sow stalls, the gestation crates are metal cages that are almost the same size as a pig, making it difficult for the animals to move comfortably. While these cages are used to confine pregnant pigs, they are usually moved to farrowing crates for giving birth and are kept there until the piglets are taken away.

According to the Indian Council of Agricultural Research's National Research Centre on Pig, this practice is illegal as it violates the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act. Notably, upon the request of PETA India, Goa, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh and Punjab have also issued similar circulars banning the use of the gestation and farrowing crates in pig farming.

PETA commends the move

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Talking about this decision, PETA India Advocacy Associate Farhat Ul Ain said, "PETA India commends the Rajasthan government for its action, which could spare countless pigs severe confinement in crates."

"PETA India reminds everyone that they can help prevent the suffering of pigs simply by not eating them, as the use of these crates is just one horrific practice of the pig-meat industry. Pigs are also transported in extremely crowded vehicles to slaughterhouses, where they're killed by being struck on the head or stabbed in the chest," added the PETA India officer.

-with inputs from IANS