The preliminary report of the 21st Livestock Census has unveiled a significant surge in the poultry population across Punjab. According to the data, the total number of poultry—primarily broilers and layers—has more than doubled, rising from 1.76 crore in the 20th Livestock Census of 2019 to an impressive 3.57 crore in 2025. This exponential growth marks a pivotal shift in the state’s agricultural landscape, indicating a booming interest in poultry farming as a sustainable and profitable venture.
What’s Driving the Poultry Boom?
A senior official from the Animal Husbandry Department attributes this sharp increase to a growing awareness of poultry farming as a viable commercial activity. While the population of cattle and buffaloes has seen a decline, farmers are diversifying into allied sectors like poultry farming, goat rearing, and even horse breeding. This diversification reflects a broader trend of farmers seeking higher returns through non-traditional livestock activities.
Dr. Gurdit Singh, Deputy Director of the Animal Husbandry Department, emphasized that several factors have contributed to this surge, including:
- Absence of major bird diseases in recent years
- Better egg prices that have remained consistent
- The rise of contract broiler and layer farming, offering more predictable income streams
The Impact of Contract Farming
Contract farming has emerged as a major catalyst for this poultry population boom. Under contract agreements, companies provide inputs, technical support, and marketing, while farm owners contribute land, labor, and management. This model reduces the risks for farmers while ensuring steady growth. For instance, poultry farmers who previously reared 5,000 birds are now managing up to 10,000 under these structured agreements.
Government Acknowledgment and Future Outlook
Animal Husbandry Minister Gurmeet Singh Khuddian recognized this upward trend, highlighting the enthusiasm among people for allied agricultural ventures. He also expressed concern over the declining population of cattle and buffaloes, assuring that the government is planning new initiatives to rejuvenate interest in traditional livestock farming.
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