The poultry farming industry in India has come a long way since its inception in the 1960s. Today, it is a major contributor to the Indian economy, providing employment to millions of people and meeting the protein requirements of a large population. In this article, we will take a closer look at the poultry industry in India, its journey to modernization, and related numbers.
Size of the Industry
The poultry farming industry in India is a rapidly growing sector. According to a report by the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD), the poultry industry in India is worth around Rs. 90,000 crore (US$12.2 billion) and is growing at a rate of 8-10% annually. The industry has become an important source of income for many farmers and small-scale entrepreneurs, with a majority of poultry farms being owned by small and marginal farmers.
The Journey to Modernization
The poultry industry in India started with small backyard farms and gradually evolved into a modern and organized sector. In the 1960s, the government of India started to encourage the development of the poultry industry as a means of providing high-quality protein to the population. The government established the Poultry Development Board, which provided financial assistance and technical guidance to farmers.
The 1980s saw the beginning of the modernization of the poultry industry in India. Private companies started to invest in the sector, and modern production techniques were introduced. The use of automated feeding and watering systems, temperature-controlled sheds, and improved breeding techniques led to an increase in productivity and a decrease in production costs.
Today, the poultry industry in India is a highly organized and modern sector, with a focus on improving productivity and quality. The use of advanced technology, such as genetic engineering and biotechnology, has enabled the development of superior breeds of chickens that are resistant to diseases and have better meat and egg production capabilities.
Related Numbers
The poultry industry in India is a significant contributor to the economy, providing employment to millions of people. According to the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, the poultry industry in India provides employment to around 5 million people directly and indirectly. It is also an important source of protein, with the per capita consumption of eggs in India increasing from 30 eggs per year in the 1990s to 69 eggs per year in 2019. The per capita consumption of chicken has also increased from 0.7 kg in the 1990s to 4.2 kg in 2019.
Conclusion
The poultry industry in India has come a long way since its inception in the 1960s. It is a rapidly growing sector that is contributing significantly to the Indian economy, providing employment to millions of people and meeting the protein requirements of a large population. The industry has undergone a journey of modernization, with the use of advanced technology and modern production techniques. As the demand for protein continues to rise in India, the poultry industry is expected to play an even more significant role in the coming years.
START YOUR OWN POULTRY BUSINESS
Starting a poultry business in India can be a profitable venture if done correctly. Here are some ways to get started:
Determine your business structure: You can start a poultry business as a sole proprietorship, partnership, or private limited company. Each structure has its own advantages and disadvantages, so choose the one that is best suited for your needs.
Develop a business plan: A business plan is essential for any business, and a poultry business is no exception. Your business plan should include your target market, production plan, marketing plan, financial projections, and other important details.
Choose the right location: The location of your poultry farm is crucial. It should be in a place that is easily accessible, has adequate water supply, and is not too far from your target market.
Get the necessary licenses and permits: Starting a poultry business in India requires several licenses and permits from the government. These include a trade license, food safety and hygiene certificate, and pollution control certificate.
Invest in the right equipment: The equipment you choose for your poultry farm will have a significant impact on your production and profitability. Invest in quality equipment such as incubators, brooders, and cages.
Choose the right breed of poultry: The breed of poultry you choose will depend on the type of product you want to produce, such as eggs or meat. Some popular breeds in India include the White Leghorn, Rhode Island Red, and Cornish Cross.
Develop a marketing strategy: A marketing strategy is essential for any business, including a poultry business. Identify your target market and develop a marketing plan that will help you reach them.
Starting a poultry business in India can be challenging, but with the right approach, it can be a profitable venture. By following the steps outlined above, you can set yourself up for success in the poultry industry.