Shopian, October 08, 2025 – The Krishi Vigyan Kendra Shopian is revolutionising rural economies by empowering farmers, particularly women, through its Backyard Poultry Farming initiative under the Front Line Demonstration (FLD) programme. This transformative effort is fostering income generation, enhancing nutritional security, and promoting self-reliance among rural households in Shopian district.Supported by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), the FLD programme introduces high-yielding, climate-resilient poultry breeds like Vanaraja and Srinidhi, ideal for low-cost backyard systems. KVK Shopian has reached over 150 households, prioritising women-led self-help groups , providing free chicks, feed, and vaccinations, along with training in scientific poultry management. “This initiative is about more than just farming—it’s about building sustainable livelihoods and empowering women to take charge of their futures,” said Dr. Mehraj-ud-Din, Programme Coordinator at KVK Shopian.
The programme equips farmers with skills in feed management, disease control, and market linkages, enabling them to earn ₹3,000-5,000 monthly from egg and meat sales. For many, like 38-year-old Rifat Ara from Keller village, this has been life-changing: “With 25 birds, I’m earning enough to support my children’s education while feeding my family nutritious eggs.” The initiative also tackles malnutrition, a pressing issue in rural areas, by ensuring a steady supply of protein-rich food.
Drawing from successful models like KVK Srinagar’s Integrated Farming Systems, Shopian’s programme integrates poultry with existing apple-based agriculture, utilising organic waste as feed. Despite challenges like predation and feed costs, KVK Shopian collaborates with the National Livestock Mission (NLM) and NABARD to provide biosecurity training and financial support. Early results show a 35% income boost for participants, with plans to scale up through community cooperatives.Aligned with the Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan, this initiative is paving the way for an Atmanirbhar Bharat by fostering entrepreneurship and resilience. As Shopian’s rural women lead the charge, KVK’s efforts are setting a blueprint for sustainable agriculture across Jammu and Kashmir.
