Poultry farming encompasses raising chickens for meat (broilers) and eggs (layers), making it a versatile and potentially profitable enterprise.
Poultry farming is a method that involves the nurturing of a wide category of domestic birds to develop food like meat and eggs.
The poultry farm business is the fastest-growing business in India under the farming and agriculture business. Around 3 million farmers are doing poultry business.
The chicken farm business was limited to backyard farming in old times, but it has now transformed and developed into a techno-commercial industry.
The cost of starting a poultry farming business in India ranges from INR 50,000 to INR 10 lakhs. The cost will depend upon the size of the poultry farm as shown below:
Poultry Farm Size |
Estimated Cost in INR |
Small Scale |
50,000 – 1.50 lakhs |
Medium Scale |
1.50 lakhs – 3.50 lakhs |
Large Scale |
7.00 lakhs – 10.00 lakhs |
If you want to start a poultry farm business, you need to follow some steps so that your poultry farm investment can give you a profit. You should be aware of the requirements for poultry farming to make it a success. Here, we have listed the procedure to start a hen farm business.
Any successful venture starts with thorough research and meticulous planning. Some of the initial steps involved are:
This is the most crucial step. You need to determine the type of poultry farm you want to start. Depending upon this, the size of the farm and cost will be determined. In general, there are four types of poultry farms. These are:
Free range poultry farm: This type of farm allows free movement of birds and are generally of size ranging from 12,000 to 36,000 sq feet.
Semi-range poultry farm: It requires a farm size of approximately 8000 sq feet.
Battery cage poultry farm: This type of farm does not allow free movement of birds and are generally of size 6000 sq feet.
Completely wild poultry farm: It is the largest of all poultry farms and is of size 44,000 sq feet. It is like a natural habitat with plenty of trees around.
In India, poultry business is generally focused on meat production (broilers), egg production (layers), or both. Each segment has its own requirements and considerations. Broilers require shorter rearing periods and higher feed efficiency, while layers provide a continuous stream of income through egg production.
Having decided upon the process you want to focus on, now you need to select the type of breeds. In India, there are more than 92 variations of chicken that produce meat and eggs. The 3 most common are:
Layer chickens: These breeds of hens commence egg laying between 18 to 19 weeks of age and can sustain this activity until they reach 72 to 78 weeks. They have the potential to produce over 250 eggs annually, while consuming around 2.25 kg of feed.
Broiler chickens: They are characterized by their rapid growth, reaching full maturity in just 8 weeks. These chickens are notable for their substantial meat yield.
Rooster chickens: They represent the male members of the gallinaceous bird species and are also referred to as cocks. Roosters play a protective role for egg-laying hens due to their territorial instincts. As roosters can adapt to any environment, they can be conveniently transported.
Select a site that is well-connected to transportation networks and has access to essential resources like water and electricity. Ensure that the chosen location adheres to local zoning regulations.
Construct a well-designed poultry house that provides adequate ventilation, lighting, and temperature control. Proper housing is essential to prevent diseases and promote the well-being of your poultry. The layout should facilitate easy cleaning, waste management, and disease control.
Plan for arranging funds from a bank, NBFC or any other financial organization. You can apply for a business loan depending upon the interest rate charged by different financial companies.
Having obtained the funds, now monitor your financials closely and track expenses and revenues. Calculate the cost of production per unit and set competitive prices for your products. Regularly assess your business's profitability and adjust as needed.
Feeding and Nutrition: Develop a balanced feeding program that meets the nutritional requirements of your poultry. Consult with veterinarians and nutritionists to ensure optimal growth and production.
Health and Disease Management: Implement biosecurity measures to prevent the entry and spread of diseases. Regularly vaccinate your poultry stock.
Waste Management: Implement waste disposal systems that adhere to local regulations. Proper waste management also contributes to a clean and healthy environment for your poultry.
To start any business in India obtaining necessary licenses and permits are required. Some of them required while starting a poultry farm business are:
Develop a marketing strategy to promote your poultry products. Leverage both traditional methods and digital platforms to reach your target audience. Focus on product quality, as word-of-mouth recommendations can significantly impact your business's reputation.
While poultry farming in India offers substantial opportunities, there are several challenges to be aware of:
Starting a poultry farming business in India can be a rewarding endeavour, offering both financial returns and a contribution to the country's food security. By thoroughly researching the industry, planning meticulously, and implementing best practices, you can establish a successful and sustainable poultry farm. While challenges exist, the right approach and dedication can help you overcome obstacles and build a thriving poultry business in India's agricultural landscape.
So, it was all about the poultry farming in India. To learn more about poultry farming business, stay tuned with Tractorkarvan.