Demonstration of backyard rearing of TANUVAS Aseel x Nandanam chicken-4 chicks among rural youth for improved income

Abstract

Backyard poultry farming plays a pivotal role in enhancing rural livelihood, improving nutritional security and generating supplementary income for small and marginal farmers. Despite its potential, traditional desi bird rearing suffers from poor egg production, low body weight, high mortality and limited access to improved germplasm. To address these constraints, a frontline demonstration (FLD) was conducted by Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Kattupakkam, to popularize TANUVAS Aseel × Nandanam Chicken-4 (ANC4), a superior synthetic native chicken strain evolved for dual-purpose performance. Five rural youth from Erumbulicheri village, Chengalpattu and Kancheepuram districts, were selected, and each was provided with 20 day-old ANC4 chicks along with feed and equipment. The study assessed key productive and economic parameters, including body weight, livability, feed efficiency, age at first lay, egg production and benefit-cost ratio (BCR). Results showed significant improvement in all assessed traits compared with local desi birds. ANC4 demonstrated higher livability (94%), better body weight (518 g at 8 weeks; 1.16 kg at 12 weeks), improved feed efficiency (3.642) and reduced age at first lay (157 days). Monthly egg production increased from 130 in local birds to 390 in ANC4 birds from the given birds to farmers. Economic analysis revealed a BCR of 1.89 compared with 1.09 in desi birds, indicating substantial profitability. Farmers reported increased income, household egg consumption and high market demand. The demonstration created awareness, motivated horizontal spread and enhanced entrepreneurship among rural youth. The findings confirm ANC4 backyard rearing as a viable livelihood intervention for rural households.