What happened
Following the confirmation of African Swine Fever (ASF) at Signal Angami Village in Dimapur on May 20, 2026, the Nagaland government declared a 10-km Infected Zone and surrounding Surveillance Zone and imposed district-wide restrictions across Dimapur, Mon, Chumoukedima, and Medziphema. All pork sales were suspended; live pig transport was banned; slaughter is permitted only with prior government clearance and veterinary certification. In a state where pork is not a dietary preference but a cultural institution — central to Naga festivals, social events, the Hornbill Festival, and daily meals — the restrictions effectively placed the heart of Naga food culture under bureaucratic licensing. Mon district went furthest, banning all pork sales district-wide. Government officials have promised enforcement and immediate action against violations. The state that has informally trademarked smoked pork now requires you to file paperwork before you can smoke it.