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Poultry Industry
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"Education is a liberating force, and in

our age it is also a democratising force,
cutting across the barriers ofcaste mid
class, smoothing out inequalities imposed
by birth and other circumstances. "
- Indira Gandhi
Ite~1Inclira Gandhi OLP..OOl
~ National Open University
School of Agriculture Introduction to
Poultry Farming
Block
1
POULTRY INDUSTRY
UNITl
..
Overview of Poultry Farming 5
UNIT 2
Farming Systems 19
UNIT 3
Poultry Development Programmes in India 37

PROGRAMME DESIGN COMMITTEE
Or. P.e. Lalsangzuala, Manager, Poultry Farm, Or. Niranjan Kalita, Associate Professor
Department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Department of Poultry Science
Government of Mizoram, Selesih College of Veterinary Science
Aizawl - 796 014 (Mizoram) Assam Agricultural University
Khanapara, Guwahati - 781 022 (Assam)
Dr. VR. Hingane, Director, Dr. B.V Rao Institute
of Poultry Management and Technology Dr. Jayasree Kurup, Deputy Director
P.O. Uruli, Kanchan - 412 202 EDNERU, IGNOU, New Delhi - 110068
Pune District (Maharashtra)
Dr. S.R. Zonunthara, Regional Director
Dr. H.P. Sbrivastava, Principal Scientist and Head IGNOU Regional Centre
Post Graduate Education and Training Section Aizawl - 796 001 (Mizoram)
Central Avian Research Institute (CARI)
Faculty, School of Agriculture, IGNOU
lzatnagar, Bareilly - 243 122 (Uttar Pradesh)
Prof. B.S. Hansra, Director
Dr. P.VK. Sasidhar, Scientist - Senior Scale
Or. M.K. SaJooja, Professor
(Veterinary Extension), Technology Transfer Section
Central Avian Research Institute (CARl) Dr. S. K. Yadav, Reader
Izatnagar, Bareilly - 243 122 (Uttar Pradesh) Or. P.K. Jain, Assistant Professor
Or. Asha Rajini, Professor, Department of Poultry Or. P. Vijayakumar, Assistant Professor
Science, Madras Veterinary College Er. Mukesh Kumar, Assistant Professor
Vepery, Chennai - 600 005 (Tamil Nadu) Dr. Mita Sinhamahapatra, Assistant Professor
Dr. D. Narahari, # 31/15, 3'd Floor Dr. Pooja Riat, Junior Consultant
East First Main Road, Shenoy Nagar
Chennai - 600030 (Tamil Nadu)
Programme Coordinator: Dr. P. Vijayakumar
Course Coordinator Dr. P. Vijayakumar
Programme Proposer Dr. S.R. Zonunthara
BLOCK PREPARATION TEAM

Unit Writers Uttar Pradesh (Unit 3)
Dr. Asha Rajini, Professor, Department of Poultry Editors
Science, Madras Veterinary College
Or. H.P. Shrivastava, Principal Scientist and
Vepery, Chennai - 600 005, Tamil Nadu (Unit I) Head, Post Graduate Education and Training
Section, Central Avian Research Institute
Dr. Niranjan Kalita, Associate Professor,
(CARI), Izatnagar, Bareilly - 243 122
Department of Poultry Science, College of
Uttar Pradesh
Veterinary Science, Assam Agricultural
University Or. P. Vijayakurnar, Assistant Professor
Khanapara, Guwahati-78I 022, Assam (Unit 2) School of Agriculture, IGNOU
New Delhi - J to 068
Dr. P.V K. Sasidhar, Scientist - Senior Scale
(Veterinary Extension), Technology Transfer Section
Central Avian Research Institute (CARI)
Izarnagar, Barei Ily - 243 122
.Block Coordinator: Dr. P. Vijayakumar

PRINT PRODUCTION
Mr. B.Natarajan Mr. S. B. Berman Mr. Babu Lal Rewadia

Dy.Registrar (Pub.) Assi.Registrar (Pub.) Section Officer (Pub.)
MPDD,IGNOU MPDD,IGNOU MPDD,IGNOU
November, 2011 (Reprint)
IQ Indira Gandhi National Open UniversityItltl').
ISBN: 978-81-266-3819-2
All rights reserved. No part of this work may be reproduced in any form. by minteograph or any other means.
without permission in writingfrom the Indira Gandhi National Open University.
Further information. about the lndira Gandhi National Open University courses may be obtained front the University's
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Printed and Published on behalf of the lndira Gandhi National Open University, New Delhi by the Director. School
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OLP-OOl INTRODUCTION TO POULTRY
FARMING
The poultry farming has been one of the most important subsidiary occupations
of the farming community. The changing food habits, economic liberalization,
globalization, industrialization, rising income and urbanization have created a
favourable atmosphere for development of poultry sector in the country. While
comparing with other livestock farming, poultry has a significant role with
many plus points by producing highly nutritious animal proteins in the form
of egg and meat, eradicating malnutrition and poverty as well as eliminating
un- and under-employment among the rural masses. However, due to lack of
modem and updated method of farming, the farmers are still practicing their
own way which has been found to be unproductive and not commercially viable.
Therefore, for every success of poultry business, adequate knowledge on various
aspects of poultry production is very much needed and one can get sufficient
professional and technical information once he or she opts for the "Certificate
in Poultry Farming" Programme.
Block 1 "Poultry Industry" deals with the status and perspective of poultry
industry in India. The technical terms used in poultry farming and various
definitions related to poultry rearing are dealt in this block. This block also
covers the details of various types of poultry farms available in India viz.,
chicken, duck, emu, geese, ostrich, partridge, pheasant, peafowl, quail and
turkey. The different types of poultry farming systems are also discussed in
this unit. This block also throws light on the poultry academic and development
Institutions involved in the training and dissemination of new findings and
developments to the farmers. Different schemes and other facilities available
for approaching the government and other agencies for the help of the farmers
for establishment of poultry farm are also dealt in this Block.
Block 2 "Biology of Poultry" informs you about the common breeds, varieties
and strains of different poultry species. Main emphasis is given on the
classification of chicken based on the place of origin, commercial value and
utility. The characteristics of important breeds of chicken, duck and turkey
along with their photographs are explained in this block. There are various
body systems in the bird like skeletal, muscular, respiratory, digestive,
circulatory, reproductive etc., which have different functions in the body for
the growth, development and maintenance of good health. These systems along
I
with their functions are discussed in detail in this block. This block also focuses
on the systems of breeding, methods of mating and culling for better production.
BLOCK 1 POULTRY INDUSTRY
Poultry Industry in India has come a long way from a backyard enterprise to
an organized commercial business with tremendous employment potential and
also as a tool to fight poverty and malnutrition. Though, the production of
cash crops has been rising at a rate of 1 to 2 per cent per annum, the eggs and
broilers have been rising at a rate of 8 to 10 per cent per annum. From a meagre
figure of 5 billion eggs and 4 million broilers in 1971, the spectacular increase
in both eggs (45 billion eggs) and broilers (2.1 billion) in 2006-07 has brought
India to hold third place in egg production (next to China and USA) and fifth
place in broiler production (next to USA, China, Brazil and Mexico) in the
world.
During the last few decades, the face of poultry industry has changed and it is
now a large integrated agribusiness whose future and success depends on access
to skilled and motivated workforce. Due to its faster growth, good livability,
excellent feed conversion and high profits, farmers in our country have started
rearing hybrid chicken. Increasing assistance from the Central and State
governments and poultry cooperatives has helped in creating infrastructural
facilities so that new entrepreneur takes up this business. Broiler or Layer
farming has been given considerable importance in the national policy and has
a good scope for further development.
Unit 1 deals with "Overview of Poultry Farming" as poultry is one of the

fastest growing segments oflivestock/agriculture and contributes a major share
in terms of protein supplementation from eggs and meat. This unit focuses on
the Indian poultry industry, its status, strengths and achievements. It also informs
you about the various technical terms and definitions used in the poultry farming
which are important to understand the poultry management .
.Unit 2 is about "Farming Systems". This unit focuses on the various types of
poultry farms viz.: chicken, duck, emu, geese, ostrich, partridge, pheasant,
peafowl, quail, swan and turkey maintained by farmers in our country. It also
deals with the different types of poultry farming systems like backyard,
commercial, breeder and mixed farming.
Unit 3 explains the different "Poultry Development Programmes in India".

The academic and development institutions, government schemes and poultry
cooperatives which are involved in the development of poultry industry in
India are dealt in this unit. This unit also gives an overview of the status and
perspectives of poultry farming in India and the role of poultry in rural livelihood
security.
UNITl OVERVIEW OF POULTRY
FARMING
Structure
1.0 Objectives
1.1 Introduction
1.2 Indian Poultry Industry

1.2.1 Poultry Population in India
1.2.2 Status of Poultry Industry
1.2.3 Strengths of Poultry Industry
1.2.4 Achievements of Poultry Industry
1.3 Technical Terms and Definitions
1.4 Let Us Sum Up
1.5 Glossary
1.6 Suggested Further Reading
1.7 References
1.8 Answers to Check Your Progress
1.0 OBJECTIVES
After studying this unit, you will be able to:
• summarise Indian Poultry Industry, its strengths and achievements; and
• explain various terminologies used in poultry farming.
1.1 INTRODUCTION
In this unit, you will get a clear idea about the poultry industry, which you are
already or will be a part of it. The study about poultry and poultry industry is
not only interesting, but it is informative too. The term "Poultry" indicates all
domesticated species of birds like chicken, duck, emu, geese, guinea fowl,
ostrich, pigeon, quail and turkey. Commercial poultry production in India is only
40 years old, although the poultry raising dates back to pre-historic times. Hybrid
layer strains were introduced into India in 1955 and broiler strains in 1961.
In India, Poultry is one of the fastest growing segments of livestock/agriculture

industry and contributes a major share in terms of protein supplementation
from eggs and meat. Amongst the animal products, which are by and large
substitutable in the diet, it is found that input-output ratio for poultry is most
favourable. With 10 kg of similar feed in each case, chicken (both meat and
egg type) gives more protein than pig, cow (milk and beef) and sheep. Therefore,
it is evident that poultry contributes a major share in this revolutionary process.
Hybrid layers of today lay on an average of 310 eggs per year compared to
240-250 eggs 30 years back. During early eighties, broilers only achieved a
mean body weight of 1.5 kg at 8 weeks of age with feed conversion ratio
(FCR) of around 3.0, whereas, now it attains 1.8 t02.0 kg mean body weight
5
with a FCR of 1.6 to' 1.8 in only 38 days (about 6 weeks).
1.2 INDIAN POULTRY INDUSTRY
Development of Poultry Industry in India has made huge stride during the last
three decades evolving from backyard farming to a full-fledged commercial
enterprise as a result of research and development initiated by the Government
and subsequently taken up by the organized private sector.
1.2.1 Poultry Population in India

By now, you know that poultry includes chicken, duck, quail, turkey etc. Do
you know how many number of poultry birds are present in India at present?
This section deals with the population of poultry in India and its current status.
India has vast resource of livestock and poultry, which play a vital role in
improving the socio-economic conditions of rural masses. India's poultry
population is 489.01 million heads and ranks 4thin duck and 5thin chicken in the
world. Chicken are the most popular among the domesticated poultry species
and account for 92 per cent of the total poultry population in India. Chicken has
received more attention in India's planning, research and developmental process.
As a result, India's chicken industry of today is not only vibrant and self reliant
but is one of the best in the world. The ducks account for 7 per cent of poultry
population and are mostly found in coastal states of the country and in states with
more lakes and rivers like, Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Jamm u and Kashmir, Kerala,
Orissa. Tamil Nadu, Tripura and West Bengal. The duck raising is still in a
primitive stage and indigenous ducks outnumber exotic ducks in spite of their
inferior performance. The quail eggs and meat have become popular. The growth
of quail farming, however, has been hampered due to insistence on wild life
licensing, high cost of production and non-availability of superior quail
germplasm. The emu, guinea fowl, ostrich and turkey farming are in their
infancy and there are miles to go for their commercial exploitation.
1.2.2 Status of Poultry Industry

India is the third largest producer of eggs in the world next only to China and
USA and produci ng 45 billion eggs in 2006. The states such as Andhra Pradesh,
Haryana, Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu are the major egg producing states that
account for more than 60 per cent ofthe eggs produced in the country. Higher
per capita consumption of 57 eggs and 500 g of broiler meat was recorded
from southern region against the lowest consumption of 18 eggs and 130 g of
broiler meat in eastern region.
India ranks fifth in the world in respect of poultry meat production during
2006 with the highest production recorded for USA followed by China, Brazil
and Mexico. The poultry meat production in India increased 18 folds from
81.000 tonnes in 1961 to 2.1 million tonnes in 2006. Andhra Pradesh is the
leading state in broiler production: followed by Tarnil Nadu, Maharashtra,
Punjab, West Bengal and Karnataka. More than 65 per cent of the broilers
produced in India are raised in these states.
1.2.3 Strengths of Poultry Industry

You already know that India stands third and fifth in egg and poultry meat
production, respectively. This is achievable because of the developments
brought about in the poultry industry in India by the following ways:
1) Development of new high productive layer and broiler strains.

2) Development of low-cost vaccines. Overview of Poultry Farming
3) Giving freedom to the poultry farmers for fixing prices for egg through
organizations like National Egg Co-ordination Committee (NECC).
4) Financing of poultry schemes.
1.2.4 Achievements of Poultry Industry

The achievements of Indian Poultry Industry are as follows:
• Improved FCR, quality control, upgraded management.
• New feed milling technologies.
• Purchase of feed raw materials and supply of better quality materials.
• Better breeding stocks.
• Rationalised pricing of breeder and commercial stocks.
• Pellet feeds are gaining increasing market share.
• Availability of feed additives viz. enzyme, pro-biotics.
• Positive role of integrators and corporates in industry.
• Distribution of feed in all regions.
• Increase in percentage of processed foods.
• Marketing of branded eggs.
• Tapping of export potentials.
• Advancement in disease diagnosis and screening procedures.
Check Your Progress 1
Note: a) Use the space given below for your answers.
b) Check your answers with those given at the end of the unit.
1) What do you mean by the term 'poultry'?
2) Globally, what is the rank of India in egg and meat production?
3) List out the achievements of Indian Poultry Industry.
................................................................................................................... 7
Pllultry Industry
JACtiVity 1
Visit few of your neighbour's house, note down the number of birds of
different poultry species reared by them, egg and meat production per
day and per capita egg and meat consumption.
1.3 TECHNICAL TERMS AND DEFINITIONS

The rearing of poultry on scientific lines is not a singlejob. It required expertise, skill
and complete knowledge on the farming systems. Several terms are frequently used
while describing the activities of poultry fanning. Some of them are as follows:
Ad lib (Latin): Ad libitum (full feeding) means as much as desired. It is commonly
used to express the availability of feed on a free choice basis. It is a labour saving
system under which poultry help themselves and eat as much as they wish.
Age at sexual maturity: It can be measured either as age at first egg (or) age at 5
per cent egg production. Sexual maturity is the duration (number of days) between
the date of hatch and the date of first egg laid or date of 5% egg production as the
case may be. The younger the bird when she begins to produce eggs, greater the
egg production will be during her laying year. Early sexual maturity is advisable
but too early sexual maturity is also not good because it produces more number of
small sized eggs (peewee eggs) which fetches lower price and more incidence of
prolapse (falling down or slipping out of place of an organ or part such as uterus).
Light breeds like Leghom mature about a month earlier than heavy breeds.
Artificial Incubation: In this method, the mechanical equipment such as
incubator is used for hatching of eggs.
Artiflcial Insemination: is the technique by which seminal fluid (semen) of male
is introduced or deposited into the female reproductive tract by a pipette (Fig. 1.1).
One cock will yield about 0.4 to 0.7 ml of semen (Fig. 1.2) depending upon the
body weight. About 0.05 to 0.10 ml of semen is enough to inseminate one hen.
* I J
Fig. Lt: Artificial Insemination of ~Jlen Fig. 1.2: Collection of semen from a cock
Automation: A process ol;yst~m which operates by mechanical or electronic

means which replaces the humanefforts and decisions.
Beak trimming (Debeaking): Removal of a-part of upper and lower mandible
(beak) by a sharp knife (Fig. 1.3) and cauterizing by a soldering rod in order to
minimize feed wastage and to reduce the risk of feather pecking/cannibalism. :~
nm: The beak of duck or geese ~Fig. 1:4).
Overview of Poultry [< a;n,Jm:
Fig. 1.3: Beak trimming using de beaker J;~ig.1.4: Bill
Bio-security: relates to maintenance of flock (birds) free of pathogens (diseases).

Bio-security is the key element in the triangle of disease control. Bio-security is a
term that includes all the measures taken to prevent pathogens (bacteria, fungi,
parasite, virus) insects, rodents and wild birds from entering or surviving and
infecting the poultry flocks. Bio-security literally means safety of living things, is
a programme designed to prevent the exposure of birds to disease causing organisms
by reducing, introduction and spread of pathogens into and between the farms.
Breed: A group of birds within a species having similar characteristics and are
able to produce offsprings with similar characteristics.
Broiler (Fryer): Immature young chicken of either sex with tender meat, soft,
pliable, smooth textured skin and flexible breast bone cartilage of about 6 weeks
of age.
Brood: A group of (baby) chicks from one hatch (Fig. 1.5).
Fig. 1.5: Day-old chicks Fig. 1.6: Brooder
Brooder: A metallic or wooden equipment used for artificial brooding of young

chicks by supplying the necessary heat (Fig. 1.6).
Brooder chick: A young chick of 0 to 8 weeks of age.
Broodiness: is a condition in which hen stops laying and show tendency to sit
on eggs to hatch them.
Broody hen: A hen which tends to sit on the egg to hatch them.
Cages: A system of housing poultry made up of steel and welded wire netting
in horizontal, stepped or vertical configuration usually in two or three tiers.
Example: Californian (Fig. 1.7) and Battery Cages (Fig. 1.8).
Poultry Industry
Fig. 1.7: Californian Cages Fig. 1.8: Battery Cages

"
Candling: is the process of visual examination of an intact egg against a light
emerging through an aperture (opening) to determine the interior quality, shell
soundness or stage of embryonic development (Fig. 1.9).
Fig. 1.9: Mass candling of eggs
Cannibalism: Vice (Bad habit) that may occur in chickens of all ages. It is
characterized by pecking of head, feather, vent and wing due to over crowding,
excess lighting, lack of exercise and improper balanced ration. This vice may
be overcome by identifying and correcting the faulty management practices or
by correcting feed, if it is unbalanced and debeaking.
Capon: A surgically castrated (testes removed) male usually below 8 to 10
months of age that is tender meated with soft, pliable, smooth textured skin
and is good for table (meat) purpose.
Chick: A young one of poultry from day old to seven or eight weeks of age
(Fig. 1.10).
Chicken: The most widely domesticated fowl.

CLFMA: means Compounded Livestock Feed Manufacturers Association of
lndia.
Clutch: Eggs laid by a hen on consecutive days without a break.
Coccidiosis: A disease caused by coccidia (micro-organism) with symptoms
of anaemia, blood-mixed dysentery and death.
Cock (Rooster): A mature male chicken (above one year of age) with coarse
skin, toughened and darkened meat and hardened breast bone cartilage usually
10 kept for breeding.
Cockerel: An immature male fowl (obtained from the layer hatchery) less Own-in" of Poultry Farrn'ng
than one year of age reared for meat purpose.
Comb: A fleshy protuberance (swelling) on the top of the fowl's head varying
in size and shape (Fig. 1.11).
,T----comb
Fig. 1.10: Chicks Fig. 1.11: Comb
Coryza: An inflammation of membrane lining the upper part of respiratory

tract that is eye, nostrils and sinuses of head.
CroiIer: is a colour feathered broiler. It is not a hybrid; but developed from

crosses of Barred Plymouth Rock, Dark Cornish, New Hampshire and Sussex
breeds. In general, the croilers are having lesser growth rate and poorer feed
efficiency compared to broilers. Therefore, they are more suitable for backyard
or free range or semi-intensive system of rearing rather than intensive system.
Even though they grow at a slower rate, they attain a body weight of 1.5 kg at
8-10 weeks of age with FCR of 2.5-3.0; they fetch a higher price per kg
compared to the broiler. Some ofthe croiler varieties available in Indian Market
are Giriraja, Nandanam Chicken 11and Vanaraja.
Culling: The elimination of unproductive or undesirable birds which when judged

from their physical characteristics are found to lack the qualities for which they
were reared, whether it may be for egg production, table purposes or for show; an
important and continuous operation for profitable poultry farming.
Deep litter: Intensive type of rearing birds on floor covered with bedding material
(Fig. 1.12) for the birds like wood shavings, groundnut hulls, paddy husk etc.
Fig. 1.12: Deep litter system of rearing
Delouse: To eradicate lice from bird.
Desi fl)wl: Fowl indigenous to India; Not a pure breed. Exhibits great variation in
i'
.:le, S Jape.colour and conformation, Best mother and ideal sitter (Broody in nature).
Poultry Industry Deworming: Act of removing or killing intestinal parasites through drug.
Disinfection: is the method of reducing the amount of infection in flocks after

an outbreak. This is accomplished by mechanical, physical or chemical means.
Downtime: Period between removal of one batch and introduction of new

batch of birds in the shed (or) is the period of time between two batches when
the house is depopulated, disinfected, kept closed and empty.
Drake: Adult male duck.
Dressed bird: A slaughtered bird with feathers, feet and head removed. In
other words, a ready-to-cook chicken.
Dressing percentage: Dressed weight divided by live weight of the bird

multiplied by one hundred.
. Dressed weight in kg
Dressing Percentage = L'lye weig
. ht III
i kg x 100
Dubbing: Process of removal of comb and wattles of large combed males to

prevent frost-bite and to enhance fertility. It is done on day one of bird's life
with the help of scissors.
Duckling: Young one of the duck.
Eaves: The point at which the roof project out from the side of the building.
Egg tooth: Small horny protrusion on the tip of chick's beak used to pip the
egg shell during hatching. It drops off soon after chick hatches out of egg.
Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR): A ratio expressed in terms of kg feed consumed

by the bird divided by kg body weight gain in case of broiler and kg egg
weight or dozen eggs laid in case of layers.
One kg feed consumed by the bird

Feed Conversion Efficiency (in layers) = One kg egg weight or dozen eggs laid
One kg feed consumed by the bird

Feed Conversion Efficiency (in broilers) = 0 k b d . h
ne goy weig t gain
.
Feed Efficiency Ratio (FER): A ratio expressed in terms of kg body weight

gain divided by kg feed consumed in case of broiler and kg egg weight or
dozen eggs laid divided by kg feed consumed in case of layers.
One kg egg weight or dozen eggs laid

Feed Efficiency Ratio (in layers) = One kg feed consumed by the bird
One kg body weight gain

Feed Efficiency Ratio (in broilers) = One kg feed consumed
Fecundity: Producing many offspring (young ones).
Fertility: refers to capacity to reproduce. It is the factor which determines the

successful offspring that may be obtained from a given number of eggs.
Fertility per cent: Expressed as % of fertile eggs divided by total number of

12 eggs set and multiplied by one hundred.
Filler flats: A card board or plastic made tray used for collection, storage and Overview of Poultry Farming
transport of eggs. Thirty eggs can be kept in one filler flat.
Flock: A group of birds or animals of one kind, especially birds or sheep.
Franchise: An agreement between a breeding organization, breeder and hatchery.
Fumigation: A method of disinfection using disinfecting gases especially

Formaldehyde gas produced by mixing formalin and potassium permanganate,
Normally used in hatcheries and in poultry farms where there is a severe disease
problem. .
Gosling: Young one of the Goose.

Gander: Adultmale goose.
Green Duck: is a duckling, which is grown rapidly and marketed from 9 to 16
weeks of age for meat.
Grower: Pullets between 9 to 20 weeks of age or at the point of lay.
Hatchability: may be defined as % of fertile 'eggs hatched (or) % of chicks

hatched from all eggs placed in the incubator.
bili m' % of fertile eggs or chicks hatched

H ate h a 1 ity -;0 = Number
. .
of eggs placed In the Incubator
Hatcher: A machine. or that portion of incubator that is used for the last 2 or 3
days of incubation mid hatching of eggs. No tuming of the egg is required.
Hatchery: A building equipped with incubators used for hatching of day old
chicks from fertile eggs through artificial incubation.
Hen: The female of all classes of poultry, except goose, whose age can vary
considerably depending on the class of poultry. A chicken hen is of egg laying
age, usually over 20 weeks old, and raised for egg production purposes.
Hover: An equipment with incandescent bulbs for heating element to keep

chicks warm (Fig. 1.6).
Incubate: To maintain favourable condition for developing and hatching fertile

eggs.
Incubation: is the act of bringing an egg to hatching i.e. providing suitable

warmth, humidity and tuming movement to facilitate growth and development
of embryo inside the egg.
Incubation period: is the period between setting and hatching out of eggs
which vary from species to species.
Incubator: A machine developed to provide the proper environment for the

development of the fertile egg and embryo into a chick or poult.
Keet: Young one of the Guinea fowl.
Layer: A mature female fowl which has been kept for egg-laying purpose (21-72
weeks of age) especially those are in current production (or) an adult commercial
chicken of 21 - 72 weeks of age and produces most of the eggs for consumption.
Leeward: A side sheltered from the wind.
Litter: An absorbent bedding material used to cover the floor in poultry houses. i3
Poultry Industry Live weight: A term associated with the meat bird to indicate its weight before
slaughter.
Liveability: Ability of individual bird to live and remain vigorous and productive.
Number of birds alive at market age

Liveability =. . x 100
Number of chicks purchased
Natural Incubation: In this method, broody hens are made to sit over the
hatching eggs to hatch out chicks.
Nest Box: Boxes provided for layer or breeder hens inside their house to lay
eggs (Fig. 1.13).
Fig. 1.13: Nest box
Overhang: Outward projection of the roof at eaves.

Oviparous: Producing offspring from egg that hatch outside the body.
Pause: Any cessation (stoppage) of egg laying for a period of 7 days or more
is called pause.
Pen: An enclosed area where birds are housed.
Photo-period: A period of illumination by both natural and artificial means.
Pipping: The act of pecking the shell and shell membranes by the chick in
order to break and hatch out of the shell.
Poult: After hatching, a young turkey of either sex that is between one day
and a couple weeks old.
Poultry: Although the term poultry is very often used as synonymous to
chicken, it includes a number of avian species such as chicken, duck, geese,
guinea fowl, quail, turkey, etc., that are domesticated for economic (egg or
meat.) purpose.
Poultry management: The science and art of organization and operation of
poultry farms to obtain the maximum returns or constant income.
Poultry Science: is the study of principles and practices involved in the
production and marketing of poultry and poultry products.
Pullet: A young domestic hen, usually one that is less than one year old. A
female chicken that has not yet started to lay eggs.
Ration: A measured amount of feed allowed to a bird during a particular period
of time. .
Roaster: A broi ler grown up to the age of 9-11 weeks with a body weight of
2.5 to 3.0 kg.
14 Shank: Legs
Snood: A fleshy protuberance (swelling) hanging from the base of the beak in Overview of Poultry Farming
turkeys or a fleshy wrinkled fold of skin that hangs down over a turkey's beak
(Fig. 1.14).
Snood
Fig. 1.14: Snood
Spent Hen: A breeder or commercial type egg hen that no longer performs at
desired producti~n levels.
Sterile: Not capable of reproducing or incapable of producing offspring (young
ones); not producing offspring.
Tom: Male turkey
Trap nest: A laying nest where the layer gets trapped when she enters to lay
eggs. It is used to identify the layer for the pedigree studies.
Define the following:
1) Broiler
............~ . , .
2) Broody hen
3) Layer
4) Comb
5) Drake
15
Poultry Industry
1.4 LET US SUM UP
The term "Poultry" indicates all domesticated species of birds like chicken,
duck, emu, geese, guinea fowl, ostrich, pigeon, quail and turkey. India is the
third largest producer of eggs in the world next only to China and USA and
producing 45 billion eggs in 2006. The states such as Andhra Pradesh, Haryana,
Maharashtra and Tamil N adu are the major egg producing states that account
formore than 60 per cent of the eggs produced in the country. India ranks fifth
in the world in respect of poultry meat production during 2006 with the highest
production recorded for USA followed by China, Brazil and Mexico. Andhra
Pradesh is the leading state in broiler production; followed by Tamil Nadu,
Maharashtra, Punjab, West Bengal and Karnataka. More than 65 per cent of
the broilers produced in India are raised in these states. The ducks account for
7 per cent of poultry population and are mostly found in coastal states of the
country and in states with more lakes and rivers like Andhra Pradesh, Assam,
Jammu and Kashmir, Kerala, Orissa, Tamil Nadu, Tripura and West BengaL
Developments in poultry industry is brought about by the development of new
high productive layer and broiler strains; development of low-cost vaccines;
giving freedom to the poultry farmers for fixing prices for egg through
organizations like National Egg Co-ordination Committee (NECC) and
financing of poultry schemes.
1.5 GLOSSARY
Anaemia : A deficiency in the oxygen-carrying component of the
blood (haemoglobin) or the number or volume of red
blood cells.
Commercial Broiler: A hybrid broiler used exclusively to produce fast

growing birds with a good feed efficiency.
Commercial Layer It is a hybrid egg type bird capable of producing about

320 eggs per year with a very good feed efficiency.
Domesticated A population of birds whose life cycle, behaviour or

physiology has been systematically altered as a result
of being under human control for many generations.
Hybrid : The product of two or more pure lines which tends to

exhibit hybrid vigour (is superior to either .of its
parents).
Organic : To be certified as an organic egg or meat, the birds

should be fed with organic feed which is produced
without pesticide, drugs, antibiotics or genetically
modified crops. The birds must be reared in deep
litter system with sufficient access to free range.
Per-capita : A Latin term that translates into "by head," basically

meaning "average per person or by or for each
individual person.
Perpendicular : Walking straight like a penguin .
Prolapse . : Coming out of intestines and/or reproductive system

In through anus (vent).
Variety : It is the term used to sub-classify breeds. There may Overview of Poultry Farming
be many varieties within a breed differentiated by

plumage colour and comb pattern. (eg.) Black
Leghorn, Brown Leghorn and White Leghom.
1.6 SUGGESTED FURTHER READING

ladhav, N.V and Siddiqui, M.F. 2007. Handbook of Poultry Production and
Management, 2nd Edn, New Delhi.
Narahari, D. 1996. Commercial Broiler Production. Emkay Publishers, East

Krishna Nagar, Delhi.
Narahari, D., Asha Rajini, R. and Prabhaharan, R, 2000. Poultry Economics

and Projects. New Print and Process, Chennai (TN).
Poultry Production Teaching Manual. 2007. Department of Poultry Science,

Madras Veterinary College, Chennai (TN).
Sreenivasaiah, P.V 2006. Scientific Poultry Production - A Unique

Encyclopaedia, 3rd Edn, International Book Distributing Co., Lucknow (UP).
1.7 REFERENCES
ladhav, N.V and Siddiqui, M.F. 2007. Handbook of Poultry Production and
Management, 2nd Edn, New Delhi.
Lakhotia, R.L. 1991. Agro's Dictionary of Poultry Science. Agro Botanical

Publisher (India), Bikaner (Rajasthan).
Narahari, D. 1996. Commercial Broiler Production, Emkay Publishers, East

Krishna Nagar, Delhi.
Narahari, D., Asha Rajini, R. and Prabhaharan, R. 2000. Poultry Economics

and Projects. New Print and Process, Chennai (TN).
Poultry Production Teaching Manual. 2007. Department of Poultry Science,

Madras Veterinary College, Chennai (TN). .
1.8 ANSWERS TO CHECK YOUR PROGRESS

1) The term "Poultry" indicates all domesticated species of birds like chicken,
duck, emu, geese, guinea fowl, ostrich, pigeon, quail and turkey.
2) Third in egg production and fifth in meat production.
3) The achievements of Indian Poultry Industry are as follows:
• Improved FCR, quality control, upgraded management.
• New feed milling technologies.
.• Purchase of feed raw materials and supply of better quality materials.
• Better breeding stocks.
• Rationalised pricing of breeder and commercial stocks.
• Pellet feeds are gaining increasing market share.
• Availability of feed additives viz. enzyme, pro-biotics.
17
• Positive role ofintegrators and corporates in industry.
Poultry Industry • Distribution of feed in all regions.
• Increase in percentage of processed foods.
• Marketing of branded eggs.
• Tapping of export potentials.
• Advancement in disease diagnosis and screening procedures.
1) Immature young chicken of either sex with tender meated, soft, pliable,
smooth textured skin and flexible breast bone cartilage of about 6 weeks
of age.
2) A hen which tends to sit on the egg to hatch them.
3) Layer is a mature female fowl which has been kept for egg-laying purpose
(21-72 weeks of age) especially those are in current production (or) an
adult commercial chicken of 21-72 weeks of age and produces most of
the eggs for consumption
4) A fleshy protuberance (swelling) on the top ofthe fowl's head varying in
size and shape.
5) An Adult Male duck.
10
UNIT 2 :FARMING SYSTEMS
Structure
2.0 Objectives
2.1 Introduction
2.2 Various Types of Poultry Farms

2.2.1 Chicken
2.2.2 Duck
2.2.3 Emu
2.2.4 Geese
2.2.5 Guinea Fowl
2.2.6 Ostrich
2.2.7 Partridge and Pheasant
2.2.8 Peafowl
2.2.9 Pigeon
2.2.10 Quail
2.2.11 Swan
2.2.12 Turkey
2.3 Different Types of Poultry Farming Systems

2.3.1 Backyard Poultry Farming
2.3.2 Commercial Poultry Farming
2.3.3 Breeder Farming
2.3.4 Mixed Farming
2.4 Let Us Sum Up
2.5 Glossary
2.7 References
2.0 OBJECTIVES
• describe the different types of poultry farms available in India;
• differentiate between different poultry farming systems;
• discuss about the backyard and commercial poultry farming; and
• justify the need for breeder and mixed farming.
2.1 INTRODUCTION
Do you know what poultry means? 'Poultry' refers to domesticated birds which are
reared for their flesh (meat), eggs and feathers and it includes a number of avian
species such as chicken, duck, emu, geese, guinea fowl, ostrich, partridge, pea
fowl, pheasant, pigeon, quail, swan and turkey. Poultry farming has become
increasingly popular both in urban and rural areas. Poultry farming has become.very
i')
encouraging enterprise in modem India for small farmers. landless labourers and
Poultry Industry educated unemployed youth as well as for big entrepreneurs. It has made tremendous
stride and has taken the shape of industry having many plus points such as:
i) Provide eggs and meat which are highly nutritive food as well as a source of
income.
ii) It also provides employment opportunity directly or indirectly.
iii) Economic improvement of rural masses can be substantially achieved with

introduction of scientific poultry farming which will have many avenues of
employment of rural side particularly among educated unemployed and under-
employed persons.
iv) Requires less investment to start the enterprise and also expected to get quick
return.
v) Mixed farming with poultry provides opportunity for additional income during
lean season of crop cultivation.
vi) Poultry manure (waste) is an excellent source of organic manure (fertilizer)

which can be utilized for growing field crops.
vii) Poultry farming can be adopted by person working in offices and other business
establishments on small scale.
2.2 VARIOUSTYPESOFPOULTRYFARMS
Though, you can find chicken farms (for eggs or meat purpose) on a variable size,
other farms employing duck, emu, geese, guinea fowl, ostrich, partridge, pea fowl,
pheasant, pigeon, quail, swan and turkey are also available. Various types of poultry
farms available in India are explained below:
2.2.1 Chicken
In chicken farming, a farmer may opt for starting either a broiler farm or layer farm
depending upon the requirement of meat and egg in the area. Further, within layer
farming, one can go for egg production, production of replacement pullets, chick
production and production of hatching eggs. Besides the nutritive value, eggs have
many industrial uses in preparation of adhesives, printer inks, shampoos, soap,
varnishes, vaccines, etc. The egg shells are used as mineral-feed to animals and
birds. The feathers are used for making various goods such as cushions, mattresses,
pillows etc. Some of the day-old commercial hybrid chicks for broilers and layers
are as follows:
Broilers: Anak 2000, Hubbard, Hybro Ross, Kegbro, Shaver Starbro, Vencob
etc.
Layers: BV-300, BV-320, Bovans White, Deklab, HH 260, Keystone, Shaver

Starcross etc.
2.2.2 Duck
The ducks occupy second place to chicken in population of eggs in the country as
they are reared mainly for egg and meat purposes. Duck production is mostly
concentrated in the eastern and southern states like Assam, Manipur, Tripura and
West Bengal followed by Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Jarnmu and Kashmir, Karnataka,
Kerala, Orissa, Tarnil Nadu, and Uttar Pradesh. The duck rearing is more popular
20 due to the following advantages:
• Availability of ponds and waterways. Chickens do not flourish in marshy wetland Farming Systems
area, which are ideal for duck rearing (Fig. 2.1).
Fig. 2.1: Ducks in pond
• These watershed areas in addition to lakes and ponds provide algae,

earthworms, fungi, insects, small fishes, snails, water weeds etc., as natural
food for the ducks and reduce the feed cost.
• Ducks are prolific layers. Even native breeds with a high disease resistance can
lay about 160-180 eggs in a year.
• Ducks also enrich the soil by their droppings while foraging.
• Duck eggs are 15-20 grams more heavier than chicken eggs.
• Requires less care and attention in management.
• Comparatively, ducks are more resistant to diseases than chicken.
• Majority of ducks lays eggs before 9.00 A.M. which helps in easy egg collection
as well as saves labour cost.
• Acts as biological vector and control many diseases by destroying snails.
• Suitable for mixed farming system such as duck -cum-fish farming.
2.2.3 Emu
The emu is another latest addition to poultry species for commercial use, which
has almost similar scope in farming like ostrich. The emu is the second largest bird
and native of Australia, where large number of emus are reared in scientifically
managed farms for their fat, feather, meat and skin. The body weight of an adult
emu is about 40-50 kg and their height is around 1.75 metres'. Its egg weight is
0.7 to 1 kg. Their meat is tasty and feathers are in great demand in the international
market. The breed able age of emu is 40 years and it attains sexual maturity at an
average age of 18 months and the incubation period of egg is 52 days. An adult
r
emu consumes about 3 kg of feed. The meat yield is 25 kg at the slaughterable
age of 12 months. The emu oil is a natural product and has been used for the
treatment of muscular and arthritic pain. The beauty and body care products with
emu oil are now available in the market. On account of better penetrating quality,
the emu oil is absorbed rapidly.
21
Poultry Indust ry
Fig. 2.2: Emu
2.2.4 Geese
Geese are very popular (next to chicken) in Russia. Male geese are known as gander
and the females are called geese. In India, the Brown-backed and White geese are
found (Fig. 2.3).
Fig. 2.3: Geese
Some of the specific characteristics of geese are as follows:
'" Hardy and can easily adapt to different feeding and management conditions.
o Have the ability to digest 40-50 % crude fibre; as such, the feed cost can be
reduced by incorporating large quantities of high-fibre containing forages in the
feed.
• Geese meat has high caloric value.
•• Goosling (young geese) can attain 5 kg weight at 8 weeks of age with the feed
conversion efficiency of about 3.0 kg, that is, it can gain 1 kg body weight by
consuming 3 kg feed.
2.2.5 Guinea Fowl

India has a large population of guinea fowl and ranks third after chicken and duck. :E
22
It is well adapted to diverse agro-climatic conditions prevailing in arid and semi-arid $
regions and also well accepted by the marginal fanners as well as other vulnerable Farming Systems
groups as small-scale poultry enterprises raised under free-range in the states of
Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh and some parts of India. Lavender, Pearl
and White are the three commonly known varieties of guinea fowl in India.
The notable features of guinea fowl are:
• Hardy, disease resistant, need low input and has unique ability to survive and
thrive under sub-optimal management and feeding conditions because of its
foraging habit.
• Meat is tender but pinkish red or dark in colour (Fig. 2.4) and having flavour of
game bird.
• Seasonal breeder and lay eggs between March and September.
• Come into production in about 30 weeks of age and lays 130-170 eggs in the
first years. The average egg weight is 43-48 g.
• Highly resistant to viral disease and therefore, they are generally raised without
any vaccination.
Fig. 2.4: Guinea Fowl meat
2.2.6 Ostrich
In the recent years, ostrich farming in India is also gaining momentum, though the
ostriches are native of Africa. The ostrich is hardy and are the largest among the
living birds at present. Locating the ostrich farms in an area suitable for Lucerne
growing has an advantage since grazing of Lucerne by chicks is a method of rearing
which yields excellent result. In order to have a better cash flow, the ostrich farming
can be practised along with other crops, horticulture and livestock farming. It is
however, not advisable to confine ostrich farming with production of other avian
species such as domestic fowl, emu, turkey etc., as the risk of spread of diseases
between such species is high. Day-old ostrich chicks weighs about 600-700 g and
reach slaughter weight at the age of7 -8 months, weighing 150 kg with a height of
2.5 m. An ostrich can live up to 70 years and can breed for 40 years, at the rate of
more than 20 chicks per year, and can produce 15 square ft.leather hide and 30 kg
. premium meat. The weight of one egg is 1.5 kg. The adult ostrich consumes about 5
kg feed per day.
v
23
Poultry Industry 2.2.7 Partridge and Pheasant
Rearing some of the game birds like partridges and pheasants are also popular in
India. The partridges may be bred until or beyond 5-8 years whereas pheasants are
usually bred for one year. The partridges fight, even while young, when put in groups.
Hence, even brooding is preferably done with less than 30 chicks in one group. On
an average, the partridges lay 30 eggs in spring and summer. Chinese Ring Neck
pheasant is the most common game breed. The pheasants lay in clutches of 10-12
eggs and the eggs hatch in 23-24 days. Their rearing techniques are different for
different purposes.
2.2.8 Peafowl
Indian blue is the common breed with Java Green and Congo being the other breeds
of peafowl. A male can mate with 5 females and laying begins after 2 years of age.
Usually, 10-12 eggs are laid in one year.
2.2.9 Pigeon
Pigeons are reared for fancy, flyers, meat and sports purposes. Homer, Swiss
Mondaine and White King are important breeds of pigeon available in India. They
mate in pairs and remain faithful throughout their life. The house for pigeons is called
'loft'. The female pigeon will usually lay 2 or 3 eggs in a clutch and the clutch interval
will be 4 to 5 weeks. The males incubate eggs during mid-day and females during
the rest of the time; the eggs hatch by 17th day and young one is referred to as
squab. Both the parents take care of the feeding of young ones by regurgitating
(bring back) the crop contents called 'crop milk' or 'pigeon milk'. Pigeons, like
geese, are very fast growing.
2.2.10 Quail
The term 'quail' refers to a group of small-sized birds, which generally run rather fly
to escape from danger. Japanese quail is a sub-species and mostly reared in India.
They are first raised as pets or singing birds, but now they are widely used for meat
and egg. The reasons for popularity of quail farming are as follows:
• Hardy and it can adapt to various environments.
• Do not require specially designed house.
• Fast growing birds, mature in about six weeks and are usually in full production
by about seven weeks of age. Thelive weight of mature bird is j 20-150 g for
male and 150- .180 g for female.
• Prolific layers produce three to four generation' per year and lay 260 eggs in
their first year oflay.
• The adult hen will consume 20 to 25 g of feed per day and lay egg of 10 to 12
gin weight.
11 Comparatively, less floor, feeder and water space in required in comparison to

chickens and ducks.
• More resistant to diseases than chickens.

Require less capital investment.
Farming Systems
2.2.11 Swan
The swans are mainly ornamental. Common breed is Mute Swan which has no
voice. They mate in pairs and, like pigeons, remain faithful throughout their life.
Females-breed as long as 30 years and males live up to 60 years. They lay only 6-
8 large, greenish-white eggs per year which hatch in 35-40 days (six weeks).
2.2.12 Thrkey
Among the various poultry species, turkey is mostly reared for meat purpose. In
India, turkey production is still in its infancy (initial stage). Small flocks are available
at some of the Agricultural Universities and Private farms for research and
development purpose only. Since the turkey poults and hens are bigger in size, their
cut-ups can be marketed in various attractive packaging suited to the incli vidual
consumer. They are more resistant to disease than chicken and therefore, rarely
suffer from diseases. The turkey farming has the following benefits:
• Grows very fast.
• Can be reared under range system in the backyards.
• Turkey egg weighs 1.3 times more than the chicken egg.
• More resistant to diseases than the chickens.
• Better forager than chickens.
• Turkey meat contains very less fat as compared to meat of other avian species.
1) What are the different types of poultry farm?
2) Which type of poultry farming is most commonly practiced in India?
3) What are the benefits of turkey farming?
2"
.'
Poultry Industry 4) Name any three advantages of duck rearing?
Activity 1
Survey your locality and collect information on different types of poultry farms
available and their scope. Which type of poultry farm do you think will be
suitable for your locality and why?
2.3 DIFFERENT TYPES OF POULTRY FARMING

SYSTEMS
Do you know what poultry farming system means? Poultry farming system is the
method of rearing birds based on the purpose for which they are reared for. There
are different types of poultry farming systems practiced in our country from backyard
to commercial unit, small to big farm and for production of fertile eggs to table eggs.
2.3.1 Backyard Poultry Farming

Backyard Poultry Farming by and large is a low input or no input activity and is
characterized by indigenous night shelter, scavenging system with little supplementary
feeding, natural hatching of chicks, poor productivity of birds (low egg production
and reduced weight gain), local marketing and no health care practice. Since time
immemorial, the backyard poultry farming has played an important role to meet the
domestic as well as socio-cultural needs of the rural people. Recently, the traditional
poultry farming in villages, which was the primary source of animal protein and
supplementary income for more than 50 per cent of the population of this country,
has suffered due to commercialization. In true sense, the backyard poultry rearing
consists of 5 to 10 birds per household. The major constraints identified for this
farming system were high incidence of diseases, lack of suitable germplasm and
attack by predators.
In backyard poultry farming, most of the farmers keep the birds in kuccha house
prepared using locally available materials like broken bricks, mud, tiles, wire net,
wood etc., whereas, only few people generally keep the birds in pucca house. The
average length, breadth and height of the poultry house constructed normally are 4
feet, 3.5 feet and 2.5 feet, respectively. Such houses are easy to clean and help in
frequent removal of droppings thus reducing susceptibility to diseases and parasites.
Under this system, the fanners release the birds early in the moming and leave the
birds for scavenging in the surroundings of the house, fields, gardens, village, alleys
etc. During scavenging, the birds generally consume kitchen waste, ants, earthworms,
26 grasshoppers, green grasses, leafy vegetahles, seede etc. In addition to scavenging,
sometimes, the poultry owners offer a handful of broken bajra, maize, rice, wheat Farming Systems
etc.
Normally, the poultry owners follow the process of natural hatching of chicks, where
the de si broody hens are used as natural incubator. Women are generally engaged in
caring of broody hens by providing them nesting place, food and water till hatching.
The nesting place are generally located in isolated dark corner of the house to avoid
any disturbance and are usually provided with sufficient litter and bedding material.
Generally, 8-10 eggs are set under each broody hen and after 21 days, chicks are
hatched out. After hatching, the chicks are generally removed on the second or third
day from the broody hens and allowed to scavenge with their mother. The average
age at first laying is around 7-8 months. The weight of eggs range from 35 to 40 g
with an average egg production of 50-60 eggs per hen per year. The average body
weight and age at the time of disposal of bird is 1.5 to 2 kg and 70-80 weeks,
respecti vely.
In the North-eastern India, the demand for rural backyard poultry is quite high
especially in tribal areas. The small rural producers produce coloured birds and
brown shelled eggs under backyard poultry and their products meet the requirements
of the rural consumers. Thus, there is a need to take up specific rural poultry production
programme.
With the initiative ofIndian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), New Delhi,
the All India Coordinated Research Project on Poultry (AICRPP) started programme
for upgradation of low input technology birds in different parts of the country and
finally release certain high yielding varieties like Giriraja, Grarnlakshmi, Grampri ya,
Krishilayer, Vanaraja etc.
2.3.2 Commercial Poultry Farming

In the past, the poultry rearing was a supplementary occupation i.e. chickens were
kept for obtaining some additional money and in some cases for cock fighting. In
some communities, the fowl is still used, as in the past, as a means of knowing when
daytime is nearing.
Gradually, the poultry keeping developed into a commercial enterprise involving

thousands of bird. Large poultry units replaced small ones, while more efficient
strains of birds, balanced feeds, intensive housing and better poultry equipment came
into use.
In commercial intensive poultry farming, there are many managemental techniques

followed to increase the net profit. Besides, there should be good stock of birds,
adequate water supply, regular quality feed supply, availability of a nutritionist within
the farm together with laboratory facilities can be of great help. The diagnostic facility
with Veterinary services is also prime importance in commercial farm to take care of
sudden occurrence of any problems. In addition to this, regular disposal of all the
wastes, both solid (manure) and effluent should be followed. Once all these conditions
are fulfilled, a definite set-up of the farm can be chosen. The poultry uni ts as a whole
individually owned or part of an integrated company should be large enough to get
the advantage of discounts in prices of inputs, and extra charges to be paid for the
off-farm products. The important commercial poultry operations in our country is
the production of egg and meat.
(i) Commercial Egg Farming
Commercial egg production is a highly competitive business that involves a substantial

27
investment of capital. The commercial egg production can be achieved either from
Poultry Industry chicken or duck. The popular commercial chicken strain like BH-78, BV-300, BV-
320, HH-260, liJ-80, ILM-90, ILR-90 and Starcross-288, and popular commercial
duck breed like Khaki Campbell and Indian Runner can be used for egg production.
These birds lay over 280- 300 eggs or more per year, if properly fed and maintained.
Successful commercial chicken farms today are likely to have 10,000 to 50,000
layers and individual farms often have 1,00,000 or more.
(ii) Commercial Broiler Farming .
Similar to that of egg farming, the commercial broiler production also can be achieved
either through chicken or duck. B-77, CA-42, IBB-83, Vencobb are some of
common commercial broiler strains of chicken. Similarly, Aylesbury and Pekin are
the best breeds for commercial duck broiler production. Chick or duckling of this
type grows very fast. The table type bird must be tender meated with soft, pliable,
smooth textured and flexible breast bone.
(ill) Factors influencing egg and meat production
For efficient poultry business operation and control, the factors influencing egg and
meat production are as follows:
A) Egg production
This is one of the important poultry operations at present in our country and continues
to be so in near future. Layers may be maintained either on deep litter or in cages.
Cages are becoming more popular Layer farming involves raising point-of-lay pullet')
(replacement stock) and maintenance of layers. These can be separate operations
or more popularly the combined one. The important factors that influence egg
production are stock, size of unit, stock density, stock replacement pol icy, diet and
egg sales.
• Stock: The genetic potential of birds in terms of egg production, efficiency of

conversion of feed to egg, livability and other economic traits are fully expressed
when conditions of management, nutrition and disease control are optimum.
This underlies the importance of source of genetic material that is 'stock'.
• Size ofthe unit: The unit size may range from a small unit of not more than
100-200 layers to a large flock of more than 10,000-50,000 layers. In larger
units, the capital expenditure is usually large than in smaller units because of the
expensive house needed to control extremes of climate more effectively.
• Stock density: Stocking density involves two things: Area per bird and colony
size. Both these act independently and additively in intluencing the performance
oflayer and profitability. Increased colony size and decreased area per bird
decreases egg production and increases mortality. The birds on floor are more
susceptible to variation in stocking density than caged layers.
• Stock replacement policy: For layers, the stock replacement policy depends
on housing policy and age of replacement of layers. If the stock is procured at
point of lay, the housing policy is fixed that is once the point of lay pullets are
placed in the house, they are removed after desired laying period for disposal
either by selling or slaughter (killing). After the flock is disposed, the house is
cleaned and next batch of point of lay pullets are placed.
It Diet: Feed is the dominant cost item in egg production operations. Every effort
should be made to minimize the feed cost without lowering the performance of
the bird. Feed is required for maintenance of body mass of the bird and for
production of egg in layers.
• Egg Sales: The average price of the eggs received is one of the important Farming Systems
factors determining the returns in egg production business.
B) Meat (Broiler) production
In broiler production, a short term large investment is needed. The entire investment
is required in the form of capital expenditure as returns occur only at the end of
operation. It is best to follow All-in-All out system in broiler production for more
efficient operation and to reduce disease occurrence. The important factors besides
cost of input and output are the stock, number of units per year, feed conversion,
optimum age at market weight and utilization of floor space.
• Stock: Broiler chicks must be capable of rapid growth with excellent livability.
The nutrition, environment control and management play a significant role in
influencing profit and worth only with stock capable of rapid growth.
• Number of broiler units: The number of broiler units raised per year depends
on the growing period and down time. Down time is the period the house is
occupied with no birds, for cleaning and preparing the house for next batch.
This is usually 7 to 15 days.
• Feed and feed conversion: Feed is the largest single item of expenditure. The
rate at which the feed is utilized for conversion to meat is important in broiler
production. Feed is required both for maintenance and growth. The feed
conversion efficiency decreases with increase in age of broilers.
• Age at market weight: This is the optimum killing age ofbroilers and is related
to cos t of feed and price of broiler.
• Maximum utilization of space: For efficient operation and to keep the disease
level low, All-in-All out system is preferable in broiler production. In this case,
all the birds are housed in the same house at the same time and disposed off at
the same time.
I) What do you mean by backyard poultry fanning?
2) What are the different types of commercial poultry fanning?
29
Poultry Industry 3) What are the factors affecting egg and meat production? .
2.3.3 Breeder Farming

In India, the development of productive broiler and layer strains with efficient parent
stock is brought about by several breeder farms located in different parts of the
country such as Bangalore, Coimbatore, Hyderabad and Pune. The main objective
of this type of farming are to maintain breeder stock for production oflarge number
of fertile eggs and good quality chicks.
Breeder flocks are managed basically by using the same technique that is applicable
to layers. Their management from one day old to point of lay are also basically
identical. The minor differences in practical details rest on the assumption that the
breeders require more physical stamina and fitness to perform satisfactorily as breeder.
It is sought to impart: these qualities through feeding and physical exercises. Breeder
stocks are given more floor, feeding and water space. However, culling of the breeders
is more frequent than layers. To prevent precocious (early age) mating, males and
females are managed separately till maturity.
Adult breeders are usually kept on the floor. Their maintenance in cages will necessitate
artificial insemination. The mating ratio in case of breeder flock varies depending on
the type of mating and type of breed. The males are introduced to the female flock
at about 6 weeks after point of lay of the pullets. By then, the pullet breeders must
have reached the egg size suitable for setting. Good quality eggs should be ensured
through clean and adequate nesting facilities and frequent egg collection.
The efficient production offertile hatching eggs, both for producing pullets for
commercial egg layers as well as for the broiler chicks, depends on continuous and
skilled management of the breeder birds. Although both types of breeders are kept
for the same purpose (production of fertile hatching eggs), one must real ize that the
two types of birds are completely different.
Commercial egg layers can be further divided into white-egg layers (White Leghoms)
and brown-egg layers (Rhode Island Red). Likewise, meat-type broiler breeders
parents can be divided into normal or standard meat type breeders and mini or
dwarf-type breeders. For commercial production, the mini type female is mated
with standard male, thus producing standard broilers. Several different types of
broilers are used in the industry, depending on the local market situation.
Rearing programme of the breeder flock:
• Housing: The breeder stock can be reared successfully on deep litter or in

breeder cages. The minimum floor space required is 1860 cm? in deep litter,
450 cm- for females and 700 cm? for male breeders in cages. About 15 cm
feeder space and 2.5 cm drinking space with one nest for every four layers is
required. It is always advisable to rear the cockerels separately from the pullets
• Flock uniformity: It is important to maintain the flock with uniform body weight;
that should coincide wi th the recommended weight of the particular strain. This
30 will be more helpful in exploiting the genetic potential of the breeder especially
for hatching egg production. Better the uniformity of growing birds, better the Farming Systems
future egg production. From 4 weeks of age, breeder chicks should be grouped
according to the body weight. The weak chicks should be taken extra care for
attaining uniformity. At any stage, the breeder flock must be having at least 80
per cent uniformity. In general, breeders will be slightly heavier if raised during
winter and slightly lighter if reared during summer.
• Feeding programme: Feed has direct effect on the productive and

reproductive performances of the breeder flock and is considered as the most
important single factor influencing the fertility and hatchability of hatching eggs.
The development of embryo is entirely dependent upon the contents and
structure of the egg for its supply of nutrients. Therefore, breeder flock must be
fed rations (feed) that will supply adequate quantity of nutrients needed for the
embryonic growth. Separate feeding of breeder hens and cock should be
followed for obtaining proper fertility and hatchability.
• Breeding programme: The males are to be reared separately up to 21 weeks

and then introduced into the breeder flock. To achieve maximum fertility in
hatching eggs, maintain at least 12 per cent males in case of natural mating and
8 per cent in case of artificial insemination. At the beginning of breeding season
(22 weeks) introduce 8 males per 100 females. Replace the weak, lame and
sick males quickly. In case of artificial insemination, at any given time, at least 5
per cent males which can yield at least 0.5 rnl semen per ejaculation (collection)
with not less than 60 per cent motility (movement) should be utilized for breeding.
Inseminate females once in 5 days with 0.03 to 0.05 rnl of neat semen within
30 minutes of collection.
• Health care programme: This is more or less similar to the programme

followed for commercial layers. These programmes vary from place to place
and time to time depending on the prevalence of diseases in the area. The only
difference in the vaccination programme will be that killed vaccines are given
for the diseases like Infectious Bronchitis, Infectious Bursal Disease,
Mycoplamosis, Ranikhet Disease etc. Generally, these vaccines are repeated
at 45 weeks of age in order to increase the matemal acquired immunity to the
chicks. Fowl cholera vaccine will be given at 10 weeks of age in endemic
(prevalent) area. Moreover, cock should be tested for mycoplasma and
salmonella at around 16 weeks of age and the positive reactors should be
eliminated. Dewonning will be done every month or once in 6 weeks in deep
litter system and once in two months in case of cage system and slat reared
breeders.
• Bio-security programme: Bio-security is an integrated programme involving

the expenditure for resources with an anticipation of return through enhanced
productivity. Bio-security should be viewed as a comprehensive system to
prevent disease outbreaks. Effective bio-security should be economically
justified and should be consistent with the design of housing, layout facilities
and the competence and capability of managers and workers.
In addition to the regular recommended health care, feeding, watering, medication

and vaccination programmes, adaptation of the following measures will help in
improving the overall efficiency of the breeder farm:
i) Breeder flock complex should be located in areas where there is no backyard

poultry or high density of commercial poultry.
31
Poultry Industry ii) In integrated operations, the breeder flock complex should be separated from
commercial flocks.
iii) Breeder farms should be located sufficiently close to public roads to facilitate
access, but individual units should be subjected to limited entry to unauthorized
persons or vehicles.
iv) All houses in the breeder farm operations must be locked except when authorized
workers are present.
v) All the persons involving in the breeder farm operations have to necessarily
undergo complete decontamination including shower and has to wear
appropriate outer clothing supplied for the unit.
vi) Each breeder farm should be independent in respect of equipment and

installations.
vii) Egg packing materials can serve as a significant route of introducing ecto-
parasites and infections into the breeding farms. Hence, plastic washable egg
filler flats should be used and should be thoroughly disinfected before reuse.
viii) Avoid contaminated feed at any stage of the breeder flock.
IX) Special provisions should be made to remove sick, injured or dead birds from
flocks.
Therefore, better management of breeder flock for the hatching egg production is
the ultimate result for the growth of the poultry industry.
2.3.4 Mixed Farming

Agriculture is still considered to be the major sector providing employment in India.
However, the small and marginal fanner families and agricultural labourers have to
face un-employment and under-employment due to seasonal work in crop production
and also due to the natural calamities occurring at one or the other seasons of the
year. Therefore, the mixed farming system seems to provide better means of providing
regular employment to these sections of rural mass. The employment potential of
mixed farming system is higher than individual farming. A sustainable mixed farming
model which is economically viable integrating different component like pig, poultry,
duck and fish are very much important for upliftment of rural economy. Further,
better utilization ofIand, water, input and output resources have been observed in
the mixed farming model as compared to individual farming. Some of the mixed
fanning systems are discussed below:
(i) Poultry-cum-fish farming

It is an economically viable system with fish production levels of 4500- 5000 kg fish
per hectare. An advantage of this system is that the residual animal feed in addition
to the excreta could also be used as feed for fishes to increase the biological
productivity of water. Secondly, the droppings of the birds can be used directly as
fish feed for omnivorous fishes such as common carp by constructing the huts over
the fish ponds. One adult chicken produces about 25 to 30 kg manure in one year;
500-600 birds are sufficient for fertilizing one hectare water spread area, Deep litter
poultry manure is applied at 40-50 kg/ hectare daily depending on the status of the
water quality in the pond.
32
(li) Duck-cum-fish farming Farming Systems
It is the most common mixed farming system. Ducks are considered as live manuring
machines of the fish ponds. Ducks help in aerating the pond waters. Ducks also
make a safe environment for fish by consuming young frogs, tad poles, dragon fly
etc. Average size of about 300 ducks would be sufficient for fertilizing one hectare
water spread area.
(ill) Poultry-cum-pig-cum-fish farming
This is the most profitable mixed farming system. In this system, 270 number of
chicken are kept with 30 pigs. The excreta of 30 pigs will be sufficient for a pond
area of one hectare for fish farming.
1) How do you manage breeder stock?
2) What are the advantages of mixed farming over individual farming?
3) Among all mixed farming systems, is the most profitable one.
Activity 2
Survey your locality and collect information on different types of farming

systems practices by the farmers and their scope. Which type of farming
system do you think will be suitable for your locality and why?
2.4 LET US SUM UP

The 'poultry' refers to domesticated birds which are reared for their flesh, eggs and
feathers. Chicken and ducks are kept for commercial production of both egg and
meat. The various types of poultry farms are chicken, duck, turkey, geese, quail,
emu, guinea fowl, swan, pea fowl, pigeons, pheasants, Ostrich, partridges etc.
33
Poultry Industry Backyard poultry farming by and large is a low input or no input venture and is
characterized by indigenous night shelter, scavenging system, with little supplementary
feeding, natural hatching of chicks, poor productivity of birds (low egg production
and weight gain), local marketing and no health care practice. In the past, poultry
rearing was a supplementary occupation. Gradually, poultry rearing developed into
a commercial enterprise involving thousands of bird. Breeders are managed basically
by using the same technique that is applicable to layers. Their management from one
day old to point oflay are also basically identical. The minor differences in practical
details rest on the assumption that the breeders require more physical stamina and
fitness to perform satisfactorily as breeder. The mixed farming system seems to
provide better means for providing regular employment to rural mass.
2.5 GLOSSARY
Breeders Birds which produce hatching eggs.
Broiler Meat type bird.
Clutch The complete set of eggs produced or incubated at one

time.
Cockerel A young domestic cock (adult male bird).
Commercial Profit making.
Entrepreneur One who starts a business or other venture that promises

economic gain but that also entails risks.
Fertility The state of being fertile; capable of producing offspring.
Foraging The act of looking or searching for feed.
Hardy Able to survive under unfavourable weather conditions or

able to with stand difficult conditions.
Indigenous Local.
Layer A hen kept for laying eggs.
Manure Poultry excreta.
Omnivorous Feeds both on plants and animals.
Poultry Domesticated birds like chicken, duck, quail, turkey etc.
Predators An animal that lives by capturing and eating other animals,
PuUet A young hen, less than one year old.
Scavenging Eating outside in an open area.
Stock Birds or animals kept for use or profit.
Venture An investment that is very risky but could yield great profits.

Jull, M.A. 1982. Poultry Husbandry, Tata McGraw-Hill Publishing Company Ltd.,
New Delhi.
34 Prasad, J. 2005. Poultry Production and Management, Kalyani Publishers.

Saxena, H.C. and Ketelaars, E.H. 2000. Poultry Production in Hot Climatic Farming Systems
Zones, Kalyani Publishers, New Delhi-Ludhiana.
Singh, RA. 1985. Poultry Production, Kalyani Publishers, New Delhi-Ludhiana.
Sreenivasaiah, p.y. 1987. Scientific Poultry Production, I" Edition, IBH

Prakashana, Bangalore.
2.7 REFERENCES
Bell, D.e and Weaver (Jr) W.D. 2002. CommercialChicken Meat and Egg
Production, Kluwer Academic Publishers.
Das, S.K. 2006. Poultry Production, CBS Publishers and Distributors, New Delhi.
lull, M.A. 1982. Poultry Husbandry, Tata McGraw- Hill Publishing Company Ltd.,
New Delhi.
Nesheim, M.C., Austic, RE. and Card, L.E. 1979. Poultry Production, Lea and
Febiger, Philadelphia, USA.
Oluyemi, lA. and Roberts, FA. 1979. Poultry Production in Warm Wet Climates,
Macmillan Press Ltd., London, UK.
Prasad, 1.2005. Poultry Production and Management, Kalyani Publishers.
Saxena, H.c. and Ketelaars, E.H. 2000. Poultry Production in Hot Climatic
Zones, Kalyani Publishers, New Delhi-Ludhiana.
Singh, RA. 1985. Poultry Production, Kalyani Publishers, New Delhi-Ludhiana.
Sreenivasaiah, pv. 1987. Scientific Poultry Production. 1st Edn, IBH Prakashana,
Bangalore (Karnataka).
Sreenivasaiah, P.V. 2006. Scientific Poultry Production - A Unique

Encyclopaedia, 3rd Edn., International Book Distributing Co., Lucknow (UP)

1) The various types of poultry farms are chicken, duck, emu, geese, guinea fowl,
ostrich, partridge, pea fowl, pheasants, pigeons, quail, swan and turkey.
2) Among all types of poultry farms, the most common farming practised in India
are chicken and duck.
3) The turkey fanning has the following benefits:
• Grows very fast.
• Can be reared under range system in the backyards.
• Turkey egg weighs 1.3 times more than the chicken egg.
• More resistant to diseases than the chicken.
• Better forager than chickens.
• Turkey meat contains very less fat as compared to meat of other avian
species.
35
Poultry Industry 4) The advantages of duck rearing are as follows:
• These watershed areas in addition to lakes and ponds provide algae,

earthworms, fungi, insects, small fishes, snails, water weeds etc., as natural
food for the ducks and reduce the feed cost.
• Ducks are prolific layers. Even native breeds with a high disease resistance
can lay about 160-180 eggs in a year.
• Ducks also enrich the soil by their droppings while foraging.
• Duck eggs are 15-20 grams more heavier than chicken eggs.
• Requires less care and attention in management.
1) Backyard Poultry Farming by and large is a low input or no input venture and
is characterized by indigenous night shelter, scavenging system, with little
supplementary feeding, natural hatching of chicks, poor productivity of birds
(low egg production and weight gain), local marketing and no health care
practice.
2) The different types of commercial poultry farming are layer farming for egg
production and broiler farming for meat production.
3) The important factors that influence egg production are stock, size of unit,
stock density, stock replacement policy, diet and egg sales. The important factors
besides cost of input and output are the stock, number of broiler units per year,
feed and feed conversion, optimum age at market weight and utilization of floor
space.
1) Breeders are managed basically by using the same technique that are applicable
to layers. Their management from one day old to point oflay are also basically
identical. The minor differences in practical details rest on the assumption that
the breeders require more physical stamina and fitness to perform satisfactorily
as breeder. It is sought to impart these qualities through feeding and physical
exercises.
2) Mixed farming system provides better means of regular employment to these

sections of rural mass. The employment potential of mixed farming system is
higher than individual farming. A sustainable mixed farming model which is
economic ally viable integrating different component like pig, poultry, duck and
fish are very much important for upliftment of rural economy.· Further, better
utilization of land, water, input and output resources have been observed in the
mixed farming model as compared to individual farrriing.
3) Poultry-cum-pig-cum-Fish farming.
36
UNIT 3 POULTRY DEVELOPMENT
PROGRAMMES IN INDIA
Structure
3.0 Objectives
3.1 Introduction
3.2 Status and Perspectives of Poultry Farming in India
3.2.1 Structure of Poultry Sector
3.2.2 Regional Demand and Growth Patterns
3.2.3 Poultry Production Structure and Technical Performance
3.2.4 Poultry Marketing and Prices
3.3 Rural Livelihood Security

3.3.l Poultry in Rural Development
3.3.2 Role of Women
3.3.3 Employment
3.4 Poultry Academic and Development Institutions

3.4.1 Veterinary Colleges
3.4.2 Poultry Academic and Research Organizations
3.4.3 Poultry Development Organizations
3.4.4 Polytechnic and Training Institutions
3.5 Government Schemes for Poultry Farming

3.5.1 Poultry Venture Capital Fund - A Central Sector Plan Scheme
3.5.2 Financial Assistance from Banks for Broiler and Layer Farming
3.5.3 insurance Coverage for Poultry Farming
3.5.4 Prime Minister's New 15 Point Programme for the Welfare of Minorities
3.6 Poultry Cooperatives

3.6.1 Formation of Co-operative Society
3.6.2 Benefits of Co-operatives
3.6.3 Status of Poultry Co-operatives
3.6.4 Institutions Supporting the Poultry Co-operatives
3.6.5 Future Strategy of Poultry Cooperatives
3.7 LetUsSumUp
3.8 Glossary
3.10 References
3.0 OBJECTIVES
• recognize the status and perspectives of poultry farming in India;
• describe the role of poultry in rura11ivelihoodsecurity;
• summarise the poultry academic institutions and development associations as
well as government schemes available for poultry farming; and
• explain about the poultry cooperative societies. 37
Poultry Industry
3.1 INTRODUCTION
Poultry development programmes are not a matter of only plans, targets, budgets,'"
technology, material aid, experts and organizations to govern them. Rather, it is an
effective use of these mechanisms as educational means for changing the mind and
actions of all beneficiaries in such ways that they help themselves, attain economic
and social improvement. The Central and State Government agencies like Agriculture
Department, Animal Husbandry Department, Commerce & Industry Department,
Food Processing Department, Human Resource Development Department, Indian
Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), Rural Development Department, Financial
institutions like Insurance Companies and Nationalized Banks, National Bank for
Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) are actively involved and play their
part.
3.2 STATUS AND PERSPECTIVES OF POULTRY

FARMING IN INDIA
Poultry is one of the fastest growing segments of the agricultural sector in India with
an average growth rate of 8 to 10 per cent per year. India is now the world's third
largest egg producer and the fifth major producer of broilers. The estimated annual
poultry egg and meat production in India has steadily gone up to 45 bill ion eggs and
1.6 billion broilers in 2006 from a meager figure of about 5 billion eggs and 4 million
broilers in 1971. India's contribution to world production is nearly 4% of eggs and
2% of chicken meat. 'With a turnover of more than 300 billion rupees, the poultry
industry provides direct and indirect employment to over five million people in the
country and has great potential to create gainful employment with every increase in
egg/meat consumption. It accounts about 1 % of the India's Gross Domestic Product
(GDP) and 10 % ofthe total GDP attributed to livestock products. Consistent with
the increase in production and productivity, the per capita availability of eggs and
poultry meat in India has also increased to 45 eggs and 1.76 kg meat per annum,
which is still lower in comparison to recommended levels (Nutritional Advisory
Committee, Government of India) of 180 eggs and 11 kg of meat. If this gap between
the availability and requirement is filled, it provides nutritional security to all Indians
besides creating over 10 million jobs. For your comprehensi ve understanding, the
selected indicators of the development of the poultry sector are presented in the
following Table 3.1.
Table 3.1: Selected Indicators of Poultry Development in India during 2006
Indicators Quantity
Egg production 2.6 million tonnes (45 billion eggs)

Commercial broiler production 2.0 million tonnes (2.l billion broilers)
Human Population 1.1 billion
Per capita egg availability 45 number
Per capita meat availability 1.8 kg
Turnover poultry sector Rs. 300 billion
Total poultry population 4574 million
Poultry feed production (By organized 13.2 million tonnes
sector)
Source: Watt Executive Guide 2008-09
38
Poultry Development
3.2.1 Structure of Poultry Sector Programmes in India
Based on the level of production of egg and meat, poultry sector may be structured
into 3 and they are as follows:
(i) Family poultry system for food security
In this extensive backyard rearing system, the family members, especially the women
take care of the stocks, which are very small in numbers, averaging 20 birds per
family. The produce is consumed by the family and are also distributed as gifts or
occasionally bartered for other commodities. The major inputs required for this
sector are locally adaptable improved variety of stocks with better producti vity and
low mortality, health care, trainings and extension. Formation of cooperatives, self-
help groups, societies etc., will increase awareness about nutrition and also help the
farmers realize surplus (excess) production through proper technological adoption,
thus adding to their income as a supplementary (additional) source.
(ii) Smallholders
These groups offarmers practice extensive to semi-intensive rearing, which help

them, address the issues of food security and also enable surplus production for
marketing. The size of flocks may vary from a few hundreds to few thousands in
clusters. This sub-sector requires some minimal infrastructure like poultry sheds and
equipments, intensive training of farmers in chick rearing, health care, inputs like
balanced feed and good quality stocks of both improved desi and commercial varieties
along with micro-credit for produce collection and marketing. The cooperative/self-
help groups set up for facilitating inputs acquisition and marketing helps this sub-
sector to become economically viable. Linkages with District Rural Development
Agencies (DRDAs), Banks, Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) and Non-Govemmental
Organizations (NGOs) will help technology and credit to flow to the farmers.
(iii) Commercial operations
This is a highly organized and viable sub-sector employing intensive farming and
sophisticated breeding systems. High productivity of the birds are their main feature,
requiring high inputs and giving high output with nearly 300 plus eggs per year and
Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR) ofless than 2.0. This sub-sector is also going through
a gradual change from individual operation to integrated one. Contract farming by
large breeders is also one of the emerging features, to cash on the economies of
scale. Stress is on marketing, health care, processing, achieving standards for food
safety and exports. These operations range from thousands to hundreds of thousands
of stock for breeding and millions for rearing. The major requirement of this sub-
sector is high yielding birds, health care, huge infrastructure for hatchery, housing,
transport, cold chain, marketing intelligence and export standard compliance.
3.2.2 Regional Demand and Growth Patterns

Economic surveys indicate that the northern and eastern regions account for the
largest share of India's population, but their population tend to be less urbanized
than in the southern and western areas. In contrast, the southern and western regions
are the most urbanized and have the highest average per capita income •.The four
southern states viz. Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu accounts
for about 45 per cent of the country's production, with a per capita consumption of
57 eggs and 500 g of broiler meat. The eastern and central regions of India account
for about 20 per cent of egg production, with a per capita consumption of 18 eggs
and 130 g of broiler meat.
39
Poultry Industry 3.2.3 Poultry Production Structure and Technical
Performance
The structure and cost of production in the Indian poultry meat industry vary from
region to region. Independent and relatively small-scale producers still account for
most production, relatively large-scale integrated producers account for a growing
share of output in some regions. Integrated operations include large regional firms
that incorporate all aspects of production, including raising grandparent and parent
flocks, rearing day-old-chicks, contracting production, compounding feed, providing
veterinary services, and wholesaling. Large-scale integrated producers are most
prominent in the southern and western regions. Smaller, independent, and sometimes
partially integrated producers account for most poultry production in the northern
and eastern regions.
3.2.4 Poultry Marketing and Prices

Most poultry meat in India is marketed to consumers in the form of live birds, with
only a small share of output now marketed as chilled, frozen, or further processed
products. The cost of moving live birds, including transport, shrinkage, and mortality
cost severely limit inter-regional movements. As a result, the Indian poultry markets
are regional, rather than national in scope and there is limited potential for low-cost
producers to market their product in higher cost regions. The Indian broiler sector
operates almost completely as a live-bird market, with poultry retailed as live birds
and slaughtered for customers in retail shops. This practice is due to the lack of cold
chain facilities, which limits capacity to market chilled or frozen products, and with
consumer preference.

b) Check your answers with those gi ven at the end of the unit.
1) Expand the following:
i) DRDA
ii) GDP
ill) KVK
iv) NGO
v) NABARD ............•........................................................................
2) Fill up the blanks from three options given in bracket:
i) India produces billion eggs. (30; 45; 60)

ii) India produces billion broilers. (1; 2.1; 5)
ill) Per capita egg consumption is (25; 35; 45)
iv): Per capita meat consumption is kg. (1.5; 1.8; 2.5)
v) Tumoverin poultry sector is : billion. (Rs. 100; 200; 300)
3.3 RURAL LIVELIHOOD SECURITY

In general, livestock production in India is taken up by the smallholders and the
sector is extremely livelihood intensive. All different operations are crucial for players
of different strata it caters to and no section can be ignored. The requirements of
40
different sections are also varied and any policy accordingly has to make separate Poultry Development
Programmes in India
provisions at different levels, which will enable poultry to take livestock revolution
to newer heights.
3.3.1 Poultry in Rural Development

In true terms, the livelihood security aims at not merely increasing the quantity of
production but to have a holistic approach wherein problems of deprived socially
. backward sections of the society, gender inequal ity and malnutrition are also dealt
with. Poultry, due to its least demanding nature in terms of infrastructure in the
backyard set up, has been widely accepted by the rural poor. More than 50% of the
landless and marginal farmers at the bottom end of the smallholder spectrum make
out their living from poultry. With Government and institutional supportlfmancing,
groups of such farmers are also organizing themselves through cooperatives, self
help groups and societies for facilitating backward and forward linkages. Therefore,
such activities bring about other developmental progress with increasing awareness,
women's participation, literacy, health care etc. propelling a holistic improvement.
Poultry rearing has also been seen as a popular activity among the tribal people who
have been associated with it since ages.
3.3.2 Role of Women

Management of poultry has been associated with women for various historical and
social factors. In developing countries, including India, the women dominate most
acti vities and are also slowly participating in the work like shelter construction and
marketing, which were so far considered male domain. Family poultry is easily
managed within home- sheds and in rural areas this is the main resource which
women farmers have more access to benefits.
3.3.3 Employment
As income and employment in crop reached saturation, the non-crop sector including
dairy and poultry underwent an upward shift significantly. With the demand for poultry
increasing and production reaching nearly 45 billion eggs and 2.1 billion broilers,
this sector now employs over 5.0 million people. At least 80% of employment in the
poultry sector is generated directly by fanners, while 20% is engaged in allied activities
like feed production, pharmaceuticals, equipment etc.It is also estimated that for
increase in per capita availability of one egg and 50 g of poultry meat, an additional
25,000 job opportunities are created.

1) Fill in the blanks from three options given in bracket:
i) The poultry sector will employ million people (2; 4; 5).
ii) The farmers contribute % of employment in poultry sector.
(60; 70; 80)
ill) Earning from poultry is preferred by % oflandless farmers.
(30; 40; 50)
iv) Tribal people is very fond of rearing .
(buffaloes; elephant; poultry)
v) Family poultry is usually managed by .
(children; labour; women) 41
Poultry Industry
3.4 POULTRY ACADEMIC AND DEVELOPMENT
INSTITUTIONS
10 India, poultry academic and development institutions are classified into the following
types:
3.4~1 Veterinary Colleges

Veterinary colleges under State Agricultural Universities (SAUs) or State Veterinary
Universities (SVUs) deal with training in poultry courses during undergraduate
veterinary education and specialized masters and doctorate programmes in poultry
science. There are about 37 veterinary colleges in the country. Poultry Science
departments in these colleges offer training programmes to the farmers. You may
contact nearby veterinary college for information or assistance in poultry farming.
3.4.2 Poultry Academic and' Research Organizations

The Central Avian Research Institute (CARI) belonging to Indian Council· of
Agricultural Research (ICAR) conducts research and offers masters and doctorate
programmes in Poultry Science and Short-Term Specialized Training (STST)
programmes to graduates as well as Short-Term Training on Poultry Farming (S1TPF)
to interested farmers. Another institute of ICAR is Project Directorate on Poultry
(PDP), Hyderabad dealing with research and training in Poultry Science.
Table 3.2: Poultry Academic and Research Organizations
State Institute/Organizations
Uttar Pradesh CARl, Izatnagar, Bareilly
Andhra Pradesh PDP, Rajendranagar. Hyderabad
3.4.3 Poultry Development Organizations

During the 10th Five Year Plan, it was decided to combine all the existing l3 Central
Poultry Development Organizations (CPDO) region-wise into 4 Centers (Table 3.3)
" . as tf' f'Onvert the poultry developmental activities in a single window system.
Their major objective now is only to encourage backyard or rural poultry. These
Centers are now uetng used for diversification production program as one of the
thrust areas by taking up duck, turkey, Japanese quail and Guinea fowl farming.
Table 3.3: Poultry Development Organizations
Eastern Region CPDO, Bhubaneswar (Orrisa)

Northern Region CPDO, Chandigarh
Southern Region, CPDO, Bangalore (Karnataka)
Western Region CPDO, Mumbai (Maharasthra)
3.4.4 Polytechnic and Training Institutions

The diploma programmes and short to medium duration training programmers are
offered by the polytechnic and training institutions. They give more emphasis on
practical and hands-on training. As such, the trainees spend about 75% of their time
in farms and about 25% in classrooms (theory). In addition to these institutes, some
associations, federations, KVKs and NGOs are also working for poultry
42
development. You may contact any of the above institutes nearer to your place for Poultry Development
Programmes in India
information or training related to poultry farming.
b) Check your answers with those gi ven at the end of the unit.
D CARl
ii) CPDO
iii) [CAR
iv) PDP
v) STST
3.5 GOVERNMENT SCHEMES FOR POULTRY

FARMING
The below mentioned programmes or schemes are exclusively meant for poultry
development. However, under different plan programmes like Integrated Rural
Development Programme (IRDP), Pradhan Mantri Gramin Sadak Yojana
(PMGSY), Development of Women and Children Area (DWCRA) etc. Centra}
and State govemments are providing assistance for poultry farming. You may contact
nearby veterinarian, rural development officer or banks to know and obtain assistance
from such programmes.
3.5.1 Poultry Venture Capital Fund - A Central Sector Plan

Scheme
The main objective of the scheme is to create a venture capital fund for providing
financial assistance to agricultural farmers, individual entrepreneurs and groups of all
sections of unorganized as well as organized sector for the following purposes:
• To boost the unorganized poultry sector in states where development is in

primitive state and also to give incentive and create infrastructure facilities for
export of poultry products by organized sector from advanced states.
• Establishment of poultry breeding farms with low input technology and also for
other poultry species.
• Setting up of poultry feed plant and laboratory.
• Setting up of egg grading, packing and storing facility for promoting export.
• Marketing of poultry products (specialized, transport vehicles, cold storage

etc.).
i) Activities and area of operation covered under the scheme
The following activities will be funded under the scheme either individually or in
combination:
43
Poultry Industry • BroilerlEgg carts for sale of poultry products - Rs.O.l 0 lakhs.
• Central grower unit (12,500 birds per batch and 4 batches per year) - Rs.
20.001akhs.
• Egg grading, packing and storage for export capacity - Rs.80.00 lakhs.
• Establishing poultry breeding farms with low input technology birds and also
for ducks/turkey/guinea fowl/Japanese quail/emu/ostrich etc. - Rs.30.00 lakhs.
• Establishment of feedgodewn, feed mill, feed analytical unit - Rs.16.00 lakhs.
• Marketing of poultry products (specialized transport vehicle, cold room storage

facilities and retention shed for birds) - Rs.25.00 lakhs.
• Retail poultry dressing unit (up to 300 birds per day) - Rs.5.00 lakhs.
The Scheme is meant for implementation in any part ofIndia. However, thrust is in
states like Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, North-
Eastern states, Orissa, Punjab, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh and
Uttarakhand. For North-Eastern states, an allocation ofRs.2.0 crores out of Rs.7.2
crores may be made while the Canara Bank, Indian Bank, Punjab National Bank
(PNB) and State Bank ofIndia (SBI) have promised to take lead in implementing
this scheme, other commercial banks, cooperative banks and regional rural banks
may also participate as per the field level demand.
ii) Eligibility
The eligible beneficiaries shall include agricultural fanners and individual entrepreneurs
and groups of all sections of unorganized as well as organized sector. Preference
may be given to Pheriwalas, which will generate self-employment for urban poor.
iii) Preparation of projects
The borrowers selected by identified banks will be financed for specific activities
under poultry sector and assisted under the scheme. The borrowers will prepare a
bankable project and submit it to the banks for consideration under the scheme.
The fund provided will be kept with NABARD and will act as a revolving fund from
which the beneficiaries under the scheme will be given a interest free loan of 50% of
the total cost ofthe project subject to the ceiling indicated above. 10% ofthe total
investment will be borne by the borrower as his margin and the bank will charge.an
interest rate applicable as per their norms on the balance loan amount of 40% of the
project cost. This will help the borrower in reducing his interest burden.
iv) Repayment of loan
Repayment period ofloan will depend upon the cash flow and will be up to a maximum
of7 years including grace period of two years. Any deficiency in repayment in the
project will be the responsibility of the bank as the borrowers are to be identified
~U1dselected by them.
3.5.2 Financial Assistance from Banks for Broiler and Layer

Farming
The financial assistance in the form ofloans is available from various nationalized
lMnks with refinance.facility from NABARD for starting a broiler or layer farm. The
banks provide financial assistance for the following purposes:
44
i) Purpose of financial assistance Poultry Development
Programmes in India
The items of fmance would include:
• Construction of broiler sheds, brooder, grower and layer sheds.
• Construction of feed store, quarters etc.
• Purchase of poultry equipments such as brooders, debeakers, feeders, filler-

flats for egg, nest boxes, waterers, etc.
• Cost of day-old chicks, feed, medicines and labour cost for the rearing period
(first 7 weeks period for broilers and first 5 to 6 months for layers).
• Cost of land is not considered for loan. However, if land is purchased for
starting a broiler farm, its cost can be treated as party's margin money up to
I0% of the total cost of project.
• Facilities such as land development cost, fencing, water and electricity, essential
servants' quarters, godowns, transport vehicles, broiler dressing, processing
and cold storage facilities can also be considered for providing loan.
ii) Scheme formulation for bank loan
The beneficiary can prepare a scheme after consulting local technical persons of
State Animal HusbandryNeterinary Department, Poultry Corporation or Private
Commercial Broiler Hatcheries. The scheme should include information on land,
water and electricity facility marketing aspects, training facilities and expertise of
entrepreneurs and the type of assistance available from State government, poultry
corporations and local hatcheries. It should also include data on proposed capacity
of the farm, total cost of the project margin money to be provided by the beneficiary,
requirement of bank loan, estimated annual expenditure, income and profit and the
period for repayment of loan and interest.
ill) Scrutiny of scheme by the bank
The bank officers also can assist in preparation of the scheme or filling in the prescribed
application form. The scheme so formulated should be submitted to the nearest
branch of bank. After the scheme is submitted to the bank, it is examined for technical
feasibility and economic viability. Other documents such as loan application forms,
security aspects, margin money requirement etc., are also examined.
iv) Sanction of bank loan and its allocation
After ensuring technical feasibility and financial viability, the scheme is sanctioned by
the bank. The loan is allocated in 2 or 3 stages, such as against the creation of
specific assets, construction of sheds, purchase of equipments and machinery,
recurring cost on purchase of chicks, feeds, medicines, vaccines, electricity, water
and labour. The end use of the fund is verified and constant follow up is done by the
bank.
v) Margin money
•
The NABARD has defined farmers into three different categories and where subsidy
is not available, the minimum down payment as shown below (Table 3.4) is collected
from the beneficiaries.
45
Poultry Industry Table 3.4: Beneficiary Contributions for Different Categories of Farmers
SI. Category Farmer Level of Pre- Beneficiary's

No. of Farmer Development Return to Contribution
Resources
1 Small farmers Up to Rs. 1,1,000 5%
2 Medium farmers Rs.ll,OOl to Rs.19,250 10%
3 Large farmers Above Rs.19,250 15% ~
vi) Interest Rate

As per the Reserve Bank ofIndia (RBI) guidelines, the present rates of interest
(approximate) to the ultimate beneficiary financed by various agencies are as under:
Table 3.5: Rates of Loan-interest for Different Types of Banks
SI. Loan Amount Commercial Bank (CB) State Cooperative

No. and Regional Rural Bank (SCB) IState
Bank (RRB) Land Development
Bank (SLDB)
1 Up to and inclusive 12.0% As determi ned by
of Rs. 25,000 SCB/SLDB subject to
Min. of 12% (fer all
loan slabs)
2 Over Rs. 25,000 and 13.5% -do-
up to Rs. 2 lakhs
3 Over Rs. 2 lakhs As determined by -do-
CB/RRB
vii) Repayment of loan

The loan repayment is determined on the basis of gross surplus generated in the
scheme. Usually, the repayment period of loan for broiler farming is 5-6 years. The
loan for layer farming will be repaid in suitable monthly or quarterly installments
usually within a period of seven to eight years with first year as grace period.
3.5.3 Insurance Coverage for Poultry Farming

It is advisable for broiler and layer farmers to take out insurance cover for their flock
of birds against deaths from certain diseases and other accidents. All four insurance
companies in India, namely National Insurance Company, New India Assurance
Company, Oriental Insurance and United India Insurance Company extend such
insurance cover for poultry production. The details of poultry insurance schemes at
present are as follows:
i) Scope of the cover
Insurance cover provides compensation against the deaths due to accidents including
civil disorder, cyclone, earthquakes, fire, flood, lightening, riots, strikes and terrorism
and diseases contracted or occurring during the policy period.
ii) Applicability
The insurance scheme is applicable to poultry farms consisting of all types of exotic
and crossbred poultry birds in India.
ill) Minimum birds for insurance
• Under bank finance for all type ofbirds-SOO.
o Under General Type: Broi!ers-I 00 per batch, Layers-SOD per batch,
Hatchery-2000 per hatch
46
iv) Age group and Premium rates Poultry Development
Programmes in India
Type of Bird Age Group Premium Rates
Broilers Day One to 8 weeks 1.5% of peak value
Layers Day One to 20 weeks 3.2 %
21 to 72 weeks 3.5 %
Hatchery or breeder farm Day One to 72 weeks 5%
v) Insured sum
The value of the bird is fixed in relation to the age of the bird and a valuation chart is
prepared.
vi) Veterinary examination
A veterinary certificate from a qualified and registered veterinarian is necessary for

acceptance and granting of insurance cover.
vii) Claim procedure

• A claim form duly certified by the veterinarian.
• Daily records of mortality.
• Purchase invoice of the bird.
• Other proofs such as medical bills, photograph etc.
3.5.4 Prime Minister's New 15 Point Programme for the

Welfare of Minorities
The Government ofIndia (GOI) has recently launched this programme to ensure
that the beneficiaries from minority communities get a fair share of bank credit under
various Govemments sponsored schemes as well as other priority sector lending.
An important objecti ve of the programme is to ensure that the appropriate percentage
of the priority sector lending is targeted for the minority communities and the benefits
of the various Government sponsored schemes for the under -pri vileged reach the
disadvantaged sections of the minority communities. The bank loans for poultry
farming are also available under this scheme from publ ic sector banks.

D IRDP
ii) PMGSY
iii) RRB
iv) SCB
v) SLDB
3.6 POULTRY COOPERATIVES

Cooperative is defined as an autonomous association of persons united voluntarily
to meet their common economic, social, and cultural needs and aspirations through
ajointly-owned and democratically-controlled enterprise. A cooperative may also
47
Poultry Industry be defined as a business owned and controlled equally by the people who use its
services or who work at it. The objectives of poultry cooperati ves are to:
• develop manpower for poultry industry,
• launch activities for production of eggs and poultry meat,
• provide facilities for more profitable marketing, and

, '(
• undertake various extension and poultry husbandry activities.
3.6.1 Formation of Co-operative Society

The steps followed for formation of dairy co-operatives is applicable to the starting
of poultry co-operative also. All the poultry farmers are eligible to become members
of the society. The society is to be run by a duly elected managing committee. The
chairman elected by the society appoints a secretary, who in turn acts as a manager.
He should have a thorough knowledge of poultry husbandry activities. The members
of the society decides the source of supply of chicks, feed and also disposal of
birds, whereas the union takes care of loans, repayment, insurance, loss due to
unexpected causes etc.
At the district level, nearly 150-200 societies can form into one union. The union
should have hatchery, feed manufacturing plant, egg cold storage facilities, packing,
service and training centre. The union should be run by a duly elected chairman,
vice-chairman and board members. A number of poultry producers' union come
together to form the State Poultry Producers' Co-operative Federation, which may
be linked to the national organization.
Unlike the dairy co-operatives, which emerged due to the initiative from the dairy
farmers for marketing their milk, the poultry co-operatives have emerged mainly
due to the government's initiative. The poultry co-operatives were started with an
intention to provide employment to the weaker sections of the conummity. The degree
of people's participation and involvement in poultry co-operatives is mainly to obtain
loans and avail subsidy. The poultry market is not always steady and the price of the
produce keeps fluctuating.
The expectations from poultry co-operatives are as follows:
• Bargaining for good price for the output.

• Considered as institution to promote socio-econornic change of weaker sections.
• Considered to be institutions for transfer of technology.
• Provision of cheap, quality feed.
3.6.2 Benefits of Co-operatives

• Development of togetherness among the farmers.
• Reduction of social evils such as untouchability.
• Reduction of age-old superstitions prevalent among the farmers in the
management of livestock arid birds.
• Increased productivity due to adoption of improved scientific practices

advocated.
• Profitable price for their produce through marketing.
48 • Employment opportunities for rural youth and farm women.

• Development ofleadership qualities of the members. Poultry Development
Programmes in India
• A considerable portion of the profit obtained from the co-operatives was utilized
for the development of schools, hospitals etc.
•
-.'
An overall improvement in the status of livin{'S'uch as increased material
possession, providing better education to children etc.
3.6.3 Status of Poultry Co-operatives

At present, there are about 2,595 poultry co-operatives societies in India. Out of
the nine states with well developed poultry industry, the co-operatives are performing
well only in two states viz. Gujarat and Maharashtra. The number of societies doubled
during the period 1972-92, but the percentage of dormant and loss-making societies
constitutes about 80%. Even after the three decades of intensive poultry development,
the poultry co-operatives have not been able to establish themselves on a strong
footing.
i) Gujarat Poultry Co-operatives
In the state of Gujarat, some voluntary agencies introduced the industrial estate
concept for poultry industry. A flock of 100 to 150 birds were put in a compartment
and assigned to the beneficiary, who had to perform activities like visiting the hen
house three times a day for cleaning, feeding and watering the birds. The society
also provides feed and made arrangements to market the eggs. Subsidy was also
offered for the construction of sheds under tribal development programme. Gujarat
is the only state where a strong co-operative federation exists.
ii) Maharashtra Poultry Co-operatives
The co-operative societies in Maharashtra have set up a centralized poultry shed,

where chicks are reared up to 20 weeks and when the birds are ready for laying,
they are given to the members in flocks of 100-200 birds to rear near their homes
with subsidies for constructing sheds. They also supply feed and arrange for marketing
of products. Though the society pays uniform price for the eggs throughout the year,
the farmers are reluctant to supply these when the market prices are higher. Though
the number of poultry co-operatives in the state is increasing, they still have a long
way to go to flourish as an industry.
iii) Poultry Co-operatives in other States

The poultry co-operatives in Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh,
Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal etc., are still poorly developed.
The concept of developing poultry schemes for the economically weaker sections
led to the development of poultry units at scattered and far-off places and to some
extent succeeded in persuading the farmers to purchase their feed at reasonable
prices, to seek medical cover, and to sell their eggs on their own. The beneficiaries
were new entrants to these schemes and they had poor knowledge to check mortality
and to prevent various emerging diseases in the birds. In many states, the poultry
Go-operatives assumed a mercantile role of merely buying and selling eggs and feed.
3.6.4 Institutions Supporting the Poultry Co-operatives

i) National Agricultural Co-operative Marketing Federation-
The National Agricultural Co-operative Marketing Federation of India (NAFED)

has been entrusted with responsibility of operating a market intervention scheme to
enable the farmers to get reasonable price for eggs. NAFED is expected to buy two 49
Poultry Industry crore eggs in a year which is less than one-third of a day's egg production in the
country.
ii) National Co-operative Development Corporation
To accelerate the poultry development, National Co-operative Development

Corporation (NCDC) seeks expert guidance to formulate viable schemes. In this,
the primary poultry co-operatives were promoted to rear and supply layer birds
and feed, and collect the eggs for marketing. The NCDC promoted this integrated
poultry scheme and the supply of ready-to-lay birds to the members under a lease
programme. During the Eighth Five Year Plan, NCDC modified the scheme
particularly with respect to farm level production. It also proposes to sanction 90
more projects with a contribution of Rs. 100 crores.
ill) National Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe Finance and

Development Corporation
The national scheduled caste and scheduled tribe finance and development
corporation (NSFDC) was set up to promote economic development of the members
of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes whose family incomes are below twice
the poverty line limit. NSFDC provides seed capital and term loans to members of
Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes through state Governments.
iv) Poultry Egg and Meat Production Co-operatives
In the case of poultry industry, the egg and broiler production are two distinct sub-
sectors and the role performed by co-operatives in these sectors are also entirely
different. Hence, there are two separate co-operatives namely, Egg Producers'Co-
operatives and Poultry Meat Producers' Co-operatives.
(a) Egg Production Co-operatives: Poultry farmers get all the inputs namely
chicks, feed etc., from the co-operatives. National Egg Co-ordination
Committee (NECC) fixes the price and hence all the producers get the same
price. The eggs produced directly reach the consumers without any sort of
processing unlike in the case of milk. The co-operatives can also oversee the
marketing aspect, but the main problem is that they have to handle a large
volume of eggs. The cost of feed accounts for nearly 65-70 per cent of egg
production and hence the co-operatives have to concentrate on this operation
with high managing capability.Hence the failure of some of the co-operatives is
primarily due to small size of operation and poor management.
(b) Poultry Meat Production Co-operatives: In India, most of the broiler units
sell live birds and they are transported to far-off places especially to major
consuming centres. The broiler co-operatives in India do have very little scope
for conferring huge benefits to the farmers, who usually sell the birds to
middlemen. In the private sector, a few poultry processing units have been set
up and they too are handicapped for want of supporting infrastructures like
refrigerated transit facilities and absence of retail outlets for processed chicken.
The poultry co-operatives can play a significant role in meat processing but this
would call for huge capital investment and strong marketing capability.Agencies
like All India Broiler Farmers Marketing Cooperative Limited (BROMARK)
and Broiler Coordination Committee (BeC) are declaring prices for broiler/
poultry based on market dynamics and has participation of farmers, which
helps tackle the problem of middlemen to some extent.
(c) Poultry Federation oflndia: The Poultry Federation of India (PFI) is united
50 voice of the industry with government and the general public. The mission of
the PFI is to preserve, promote and protect the acti vities that bring value to Poultry Development
Programmes in 1ndia
stake holders of the poultry industry in India. The PFI membership consists of
growers, producers, industry employees, allied industry suppliers and "main
street" businesses, which recognize the importance of poultry in Indian's
economy.
3.6.5 Future Strategy for Poultry Co-operatives

The future strategy for growth of poultry co-operatives is that they should have
market orientation. The role of co-operatives is generally assumed to be cost reduction
and appropriation of value addition. For achieving the prosperity of their members,
the co-operatives should take special care of risks, namely sudden fall in productivity
and violent price fluctuations etc. An organized development of poultry co-operatives
is needed. There is also a proposal to set up a National Poultry Development Board
(NPDB). The poultry co-operatives should concentrate both at the grassroots level
production and at specialized marketing.
i) BROMARK .
ii) NAFED
iii) NCDC
iv) NECC
v) NPDB
vi) PFI
3.7 LETUSSUMUP
Poultry is one of the fastest growing segments of the agricultural sector in India with
an average growth rate of 8 to 10 per cent per year. Based on the level of production
of egg and meat, poultry sector may be structured into 3 viz. Family poultry system
for food security, Smallholders and Commercial operations. The four southern states
viz., Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu accounts for about 45
per cent of the country's production. Most poultry meat in India is marketed to
consumers in the form of live birds, with only a small share of output now marketed
as chilled, frozen, or further processed products. Poultry rearing has also been seen
as a popular activity among the tribal people who have been associated with it since
ages. Management of poultry has been associated with women for various historical
and social factors. With the demand for poultry increasing and production reaching
nearly 45 billion eggs and 2.1 billion broilers, this sector now employs over 5.0
million people. In Indie, poultry academic and development institutions are classified
into Veterinary Colleges, Poultry Academic and Research Organizations, Poultry
Development Organizations and Polytechnic and Training Institutions. Different plan
programmes like Integrated Rural Development Programme (IRDP), Pradiian Montri
Gramin Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), Development of Women and Children Au.a
(DWCRA) etc. Central or State governments are providing assistance for poultry
5)
Poultry Industry farming. Out of the nine states with well developed poultry industry, the co-operatives
are performing well only in two states viz. Gujarat and Maharashtra. National Egg
Co-ordination Committee (NECC) fixes the price and hence all the producers get
the same price. All India Broiler Farmers Marketing Cooperative Limited
(BROMARK) and Broiler Coordination Committee (BCC) are declaring prices
for broiler/poultry based on market dynamics and has participation of farmers, which
helps tackle the problem of middlemen to some extent.
3.8 GLOSSARY
Billion Equals to 100 crores.
Commercial Poultry System is a highly organized and viable sub-sector

employing intensive farming and sophisticated
breeding systems. High productivity ofthe
birds are their main feature, requiring high
inputs and gi ving high output with nearly 300
plus eggs per annum.
Dormant Temporarily quiet, inactive, or not being used.
Family Poultry System is this extensive backyard rearing system,

where the family members, especially the
women take care of the stocks, which are
very small in numbers, averaging 20 birds per
family.
Incentive Something that encourages effort or action.
Million Equals to 10 lakhs.
Poultry Venture Capital Fund A central sector plan scheme to create a

venture capital fund for providing financial
assistance to agricultural fanners/ individual
entrepreneurs and groups of all sections of
unorganized as well as organized sectors of
poultry.
Smallholding Poultry System • is the extensive to semi-intensive rearing,

which help farmers to address the issues of
food security and also enable surplus
production for marketing. The size oftlocks
may vary from a few hundreds to few
thousands in clusters.
Tonne Equals to 1,000 kilogram.

AHD. 1993. Animal Husbandry and Dairying. Report of the Technical Committee
of Direction for lmprovetneni of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, GOI, New
Delln. ~
Sachdev, A P. 2001. Marketing System in India, Blue Cross Consultants, New
Delhi, India, Unpublished Report.
Shyam Sunder, Raju M. V.L.N. and Rama Rao, S. V. 1999. Strategy of Commercial
and Backyard Poultry Production in Zl" Century in India, Project Directorate
52
on Poultry, Hyderabad:
Poultry Development
3.10 REFERENCES Programmes in India
AHD. 1993. Animal Husbandry and Dairying. Report of the Technical Committee
of Directionfor Improvement of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, GOI, New
Delhi.
AHD. Poultry Development, Government of India, Ministry of Agriculture,

Department of Animal Husbandry, Dairying and Fisheries, New Delhi, http://
ahdhp. 0 rg/poultrydeve lopment. htm
AHD. 2005. Draft National Poultry Policy. Government of India, Ministry of

Agriculture, Department of Animal Husbandry, Dairying and Fisheries, New Delhi
Model Bankable Projects: Animal Husbandry Volume II: Broiler Farming,

http://www.nabard.org/modelbankprojects/animaLbroiler.asp
Model Bankable Projects: Animal Husbandry Volume II: Layer Farming, http://
www.nabard.org/modelbankprojects/animal_layer.asp
Prabakaran, R. 2003. Good Practices in Planning and Management of

Integrated Commercial Poultry Production in South Asia. FAO Animal
Production and Health Paper 159, FAO, Rome.
Sachdev, A P. 2001. Marketing System in India, Blue Cross Consultants, New

Delhi, India, Unpublished Report.
Shyam Sunder, Raju M.Y.L.N. and Rama Rao, S.Y. 1999. Strategy of Commercial
and Backyard Poultry Production in 21 Century in India, Project Directorate
S
(
on Poultry, Hyderabad.

1) (i) DRDA District Rural Development Agency
(ii) GDP Gross Domestic Product
(iii) KVK Krishi Vigyan Kendra
(iv) NGO Non-Governmental Organization
(v) NABARD National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development
2) (i) 45
(ii) 2.1
(iii) 45
(iv) 1.8 kg
Cv) Rs. 300 billion
1) Ci) 5 million
(ii) 80%.
Ciii) 50%.
(iv) poultry
Cv) women
53
Poultry Industry Check Your Progress 3
1) (i) CARl Central Avian Research Institute
(ii) CPDO Central Poultry Development Organization
(ui) ICAR Indian Council of Agricultural Research
(iv) PDP Project Directorate on Poultry
(v) STST Short Term Specialized Training
1) (i) IRDP Integrated Rural Development Programme
(ii) PMGSY Pradhan Mantri Gramin Sadak Yojana
(Ui) RRB Regional Rural Bank
(iv) SCB State Commercial Bank
(v) SLDB State Land Development Bank
1) (i) BROMARK All India Broiler Farmers Marketing Cooperative Limited
(ii) NAFED National Agricultural Co-operative Marketing Federation

of India
(iii) NCDC National Co-operative Development Corporation
(iv) NECC National Egg Coordination Committee
(v) NPDB National Poultry Development Board
(vi) PFI Poultry Federation ofIndia
54
Feedback Questionnaire
Dear Student,
While studying the units of this block, you may have found certain portions of the text difficult to
comprehend. On the other hand, you might have enjoyed some of the portions. We wish to know
about the strengths and weaknesses of this course and hence request you to give your suggestions,
so that we may improve the course in future. Therefore, we request you to fill up and send us the
following questionnaire, which pertains to this block. If you find the space provided insufficient,
kindly use a separate sheet.
Questionnaire
Enrolment No. DDDDDDDDD

Course Code. Block No. _
J
1. How many hours did you need for studying the units?
nit no.
Number of
~Hours
1 2 3 J
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2. Please give your reactions to the following items based on your studying the block:
Criteria Excellent Very Good Poor Give specific examples, if

Good poor/excellent
presentation
D D D D
Language
D D D D
Illustrations Used
(diagrams, tables,
etc.)
D D D D
Conceptual
Clarity D D D D
Check Your
Progress D D D D
Feedback to
Check Your Progress
D D D D
Any other comments:
Mail to: Programme Coordinator (CPF)

School of Agriculture, IGNOU,
Maidan Garhi, New Delhi-llOO68
NOTES
jr~rlf' ODUC1'ION TO P
FARM_NG
BLOCK POULTRY JNOlJSTRY
1Jnil Overview of Puultrv Farrninv

~ "'"
11
11 'nit 2 Farming Systems
I.'
I lJ nit 3 Pou l ry Development Programmes in India
11 BLOC -( 2 BIOLOGY OF POlJt:fRY
Unit 1 Breeds, Va ricties and Strains
Unit 2 Body Systems and Functions
Unit 3 Breeding Systems

'- -
MPDD-IGNOU/P.O. ITlNovember 2011 (Reprint)
"
11:
ISBN: 978-81-266-3819-2

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I~'\I Indira~ndhi National 0.

"~ l1ACf en) ~ ~ ljCRf m~am: 31T\lf

"Education is a liberating force, and in

Poultry Development Programmes in India 37

BLOCK PREPARATION TEAM

.Block Coordinator: Dr. P. Vijayakumar

Mr. B.Natarajan Mr. S. B. Berman Mr. Babu Lal Rewadia

Unit 1 deals with "Overview of Poultry Farming" as poultry is one of the

Unit 3 explains the different "Poultry Development Programmes in India".

1.2 Indian Poultry Industry

1.3 Technical Terms and Definitions

1.4 Let Us Sum Up

1.6 Suggested Further Reading

1.8 Answers to Check Your Progress

• summarise Indian Poultry Industry, its strengths and achievements; and

• explain various terminologies used in poultry farming.

In India, Poultry is one of the fastest growing segments of livestock/agriculture

1.2.1 Poultry Population in India

1.2.2 Status of Poultry Industry

1.2.3 Strengths of Poultry Industry

1) Development of new high productive layer and broiler strains.

4) Financing of poultry schemes.

1.2.4 Achievements of Poultry Industry

Check Your Progress 1

Note: a) Use the space given below for your answers.

1) What do you mean by the term 'poultry'?

2) Globally, what is the rank of India in egg and meat production?

3) List out the achievements of Indian Poultry Industry.

1.3 TECHNICAL TERMS AND DEFINITIONS

Automation: A process ol;yst~m which operates by mechanical or electronic

Fig. 1.3: Beak trimming using de beaker J;~ig.1.4: Bill

Bio-security: relates to maintenance of flock (birds) free of pathogens (diseases).

Brood: A group of (baby) chicks from one hatch (Fig. 1.5).

Fig. 1.5: Day-old chicks Fig. 1.6: Brooder

Brooder: A metallic or wooden equipment used for artificial brooding of young

Brooder chick: A young chick of 0 to 8 weeks of age.

Fig. 1.7: Californian Cages Fig. 1.8: Battery Cages

Fig. 1.9: Mass candling of eggs

Chicken: The most widely domesticated fowl.

Fig. 1.10: Chicks Fig. 1.11: Comb

Coryza: An inflammation of membrane lining the upper part of respiratory

CroiIer: is a colour feathered broiler. It is not a hybrid; but developed from

Culling: The elimination of unproductive or undesirable birds which when judged

Fig. 1.12: Deep litter system of rearing

Delouse: To eradicate lice from bird.

Disinfection: is the method of reducing the amount of infection in flocks after

Downtime: Period between removal of one batch and introduction of new

Drake: Adult male duck.

Dressing percentage: Dressed weight divided by live weight of the bird

Dubbing: Process of removal of comb and wattles of large combed males to

Duckling: Young one of the duck.

Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR): A ratio expressed in terms of kg feed consumed

One kg feed consumed by the bird

One kg feed consumed by the bird

Feed Efficiency Ratio (FER): A ratio expressed in terms of kg body weight

One kg egg weight or dozen eggs laid

One kg body weight gain

Fecundity: Producing many offspring (young ones).

Fertility: refers to capacity to reproduce. It is the factor which determines the

Fertility per cent: Expressed as % of fertile eggs divided by total number of

Fumigation: A method of disinfection using disinfecting gases especially

Gosling: Young one of the Goose.

Hatchability: may be defined as % of fertile 'eggs hatched (or) % of chicks