GANDERBAL: The two-day Livestock Show 2025 at Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST-K) concluded on Sunday at the University’s Shuhama campus in Ganderbal, with a strong emphasis on making Kashmir self-sustainable in mutton and poultry production.
While cattle, sheep, rabbits, and fish exhibits attracted attention, it was the Division of Livestock Production and Management that stole the show with its vibrant display of ornamental and backyard poultry breeds. From the elegant Silky Golden Sprite and Columbian Brahma to the striking Aseel, Polish Cap, Japanese Bantam, and Pekan Bantam varieties, the stall presented a stunning array of colors and feathers.
Farmers and visitors were equally captivated by the display of ducks, turkeys, swans, and high-flyer pigeons that added to the event’s charm.
“Our aim is to encourage people to look beyond commercial broiler farming and explore backyard and ornamental poultry,” said Azmat Alam Khan, Registrar, SKUAST-K, and Principal Investigator for the All India Coordinated Research Project on Poultry.
The exhibit — one of the event’s biggest crowd-pullers — reflected SKUAST-K’s growing focus on entrepreneurship in animal farming. Faculty members and students interacted with farmers and youth, explaining how ornamental and backyard poultry could become viable livelihood ventures.
“This is a completely new concept for us. I had never seen such beautiful breeds before. They look like something out of a painting. I want to start this at home, not just for business, but because it brings joy,” said Ghulam Muhammad, a farmer from Ganderbal.
Young agri-entrepreneurs also saw potential in the niche.
“This is where technology meets tradition. Ornamental poultry can open up a niche market. People today want something unique, and this blends nature with livelihood,” said Mudasir, a poultry enthusiast.
As per an official statement, Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development, Panchayati Raj, Cooperative and Election Departments, Javid Ahmad Dar, presided over the valedictory session of Livestock Show 2025 (Pashudhan Mela) at SKUAST-K, Shuhama.
In his address, the minister highlighted the critical role of agriculture and allied sectors in driving socio-economic development, particularly for rural communities whose livelihoods depend on them. He underscored the need for infrastructure development, financial access, technological adoption, capacity building, and market linkages to ensure sustainable growth and prosperity for farmers.