Local Chicken Farming- Scope and Benefits of Local Chicken Farming
Ideal for Rural Livelihood Development & Income Generation
Local chicken farming (also called desi poultry farming) is one of the most profitable and sustainable livelihood options for rural communities. It requires low investment, provides quick returns, and is suitable for women, youth, and small farmers.
Scope of Local Chicken Farming
a) Growing Market Demand
High demand for desi chicken and eggs due to better taste and health value.
Consumers prefer local chicken over broiler for restaurants, hotels, and home consumption.
b) Low Investment, High Returns
Requires minimum setup: shelter, water, feeding area, and basic medication.
Can start with 10–50 birds and gradually expand.
c) Suitable for Rural & Tribal Villages
Birds can be raised in open, natural environments.
Easy to integrate with backyard farming.
d) Easy to Maintain
Local breeds are hardy and naturally disease-resistant.
They survive well in local climate and require less intensive care.
e) Opportunities for Micro-Entrepreneurship
Sale of chicks, eggs, meat, manure, and feed.
Can develop SHG-based poultry clusters for collective marketing.
2. Benefits of Local Chicken Farming
a) Daily & Seasonal Income
Eggs provide regular income.
Birds can be sold during festivals and peak demand seasons for higher profits.
b) Low Risk Livelihood
Even with small losses, farmers can recover quickly due to low investment.
Disease cases are fewer compared to broiler farming.
c) Nutritional Benefits
Families gain access to protein-rich eggs and meat.
Helps improve children’s nutrition in rural areas.
d) Employment Opportunities
Creates jobs in:
e) Organic Farming Support
Chicken manure is a valuable fertilizer for organic farming.
Reduces chemical fertilizer cost for farmers.
f) Women Empowerment
Women can manage backyard poultry easily.
Generates income for households and boosts financial independence.
g) Environment Friendly
Local chicken farming uses natural resources with minimal waste.
Encourages sustainable rural development.
Local chicken farming offers excellent business potential, nutritional advantages, and strong livelihood support for rural communities. Its low-cost model and consistent market demand make it a perfect initiative for NGOs like the Dooars Humanity Uplift Foundation to promote for the economic upliftment of villages in the Dooars region.