What's Happening?
In Pulwama, a district in south Kashmir, efforts are underway to revive backyard poultry farming as a means to regain egg self-sufficiency. This initiative is part of the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP), which has introduced around 20,000
birds through Free Range Poultry Units. The program aims to benefit rural households by encouraging backyard poultry rearing. Historically, backyard poultry was a significant part of the rural economy, providing both food and income. However, the practice declined due to urbanization, the shift to horticulture, and increased feed costs. The current initiative seeks to reverse this trend by supplying improved birds and promoting scientific management practices.
Why It's Important?
The revival of backyard poultry farming in Pulwama is crucial for enhancing local food security and supporting rural livelihoods. By reducing dependency on commercially produced poultry, the initiative aims to make villages more self-sufficient in egg production. This move also addresses the economic challenges faced by small-scale farmers, offering them a sustainable source of income. The program's success could serve as a model for other regions facing similar challenges, highlighting the potential of government-backed interventions in revitalizing traditional agricultural practices.
