Govt: ಕೋಳಿ ಸಾಕಾಣಿಕೆಗೆ ಸಿಗುತ್ತೆ ಸಹಾಯಧನ

Poultry farming in Karnataka plays a significant role in the state’s rural economy by providing employment opportunities, improving livelihoods, and ensuring a steady supply of animal protein to the population. Recognizing the potential of this sector, the Government of Karnataka, through its Department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services, has introduced several schemes and initiatives to promote and support poultry farming. These schemes are designed to encourage entrepreneurship in rural areas, increase poultry production, and boost the incomes of small and marginal farmers.

Objectives of the Poultry Farming Scheme

The main objectives of the Poultry Farming Scheme in Karnataka are:

1. Employment Generation: To create self-employment opportunities for rural youth and women through poultry rearing.
2. Nutritional Security: To increase the availability of affordable protein-rich food like eggs and chicken meat.
3. Rural Development: To improve the socio-economic status of rural families through a sustainable income source.
4. Entrepreneurship Promotion: To encourage rural entrepreneurship in the poultry sector.

Key Features of the Scheme

1. Subsidies and Financial Assistance:
   • The state government provides financial support and subsidies to individuals and self-help groups (SHGs) for setting up poultry units.
   • Subsidies may range from 25% to 50% depending on the category of the beneficiary (with higher subsidies for SC/ST and women beneficiaries).
   • Assistance covers costs related to poultry sheds, equipment, feed, and purchase of chicks.
2. Types of Poultry Units:
   • Broiler farms (for meat production)
   • Layer farms (for egg production)
   • Backyard poultry units (small-scale, for family nutrition and supplemental income)
   • Duck and quail farming units are also supported under special categories.
3. Bank Loan Facilitation:
   • Beneficiaries are assisted in availing loans from nationalized and cooperative banks.
   • The scheme is often linked with credit through the Karnataka State Cooperative Apex Bank and other regional rural banks.
4. Training and Capacity Building:
   • The government organizes training programs through veterinary universities and Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs).
   • Farmers are educated on scientific poultry rearing practices, disease management, and feed formulation.
5. Insurance Coverage:
   • Insurance is provided for the poultry stock against risks such as disease outbreaks and natural calamities, ensuring financial security.
6. Veterinary and Technical Support:
   • Regular visits by veterinary officers and para-vets ensure proper health care for the birds.
   • Mobile veterinary units are deployed in remote areas for faster services.

Eligibility Criteria

• Applicants must be residents of Karnataka.
• Preference is given to women, youth, SC/ST categories, and members of SHGs or cooperatives.
• Beneficiaries must have suitable land or space for poultry sheds.
• They should be willing to undergo training in poultry management.

Implementation Process

1. Application Submission: Interested individuals must apply through the local Animal Husbandry Department or online portals (when applicable).
2. Project Evaluation: Officials assess the feasibility of the proposed poultry unit.
3. Sanction and Subsidy Release: Upon approval, subsidies are disbursed either upfront or in phases as the project progresses.
4. Monitoring and Support: Regular follow-ups and evaluations ensure that the unit is running efficiently and that support is provided as needed.

Impact and Benefits

The Poultry Farming Scheme in Karnataka has significantly improved rural livelihoods by:

• Enhancing income levels through consistent returns from egg and meat sales.
• Providing gainful employment to thousands of rural families.
• Empowering women through home-based poultry enterprises.
• Increasing the state’s poultry production and reducing dependence on imports from neighboring states.

In conclusion, the Poultry Farming Scheme in Karnataka is a vital initiative that promotes rural development, enhances food security, and strengthens the agricultural economy. With continued government support and proper implementation, it holds immense potential to transform rural Karnataka into a hub for sustainable poultry production.