Effect of Tamarind Seed (Tamarindicus Indica) Feeding on Feed Intake and Nutrient Utilization in Desi Pigs*

The present study was carried out on 3–4 months old desi piglets maintained under AICRP on pig breeding, Birsa Agricultural University, Ranchi, Jharkhand. The control group was fed standard diets containing 60% maize. In experimental groups maize was replaced with tamarind seed either at 50%(T₂) or 100%(T₃) on w/w basis. The daily DM intake varied but differences were non-significant. The digestibility co-efficient of DM, EE, NFE and organic matter between groups were also similar. The digestibility co-efficient of crude protein was significantly low in T₃. However the digestibility of crude fiber significantly improved in T₃ group. Balance of N, P and Ca were positive in all the three groups and differences were found to be non-significant.