Sri Vijaya Puram | March 6, 2026
In a significant boost to backyard poultry farming and rural livelihoods in North & Middle Andaman district, the Department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services (AH&VS) distributed a large number of day-old chicks and keets to 56 beneficiaries at the Veterinary Hospital (VH), Rangat on March 6, 2026.
During the programme, a total of 1,550 day-old Vanaraja chicks, 153 Nicobari chicks, 689 ducklings, 27 turkey poults, 55 guinea fowl keets and 1,800 quail chicks were distributed among selected beneficiaries. The initiative aims to promote diversified poultry rearing in rural areas, improve household nutrition and create additional income opportunities for families through low-input, high-return backyard poultry farming.
The distribution programme was attended by Mr. Bala, Pradhan of Parnasala Gram Panchayat, who appreciated the extension efforts of the Department in reaching out to farmers. He expressed gratitude for the timely support provided to rural beneficiaries and emphasized that such initiatives play an important role in strengthening the rural economy. He also encouraged the beneficiaries to make optimum use of the birds for improving their livelihoods.
Officials from the AH&VS Department stated that the distribution forms part of ongoing departmental schemes aimed at expanding poultry production in the islands. They noted that the initiative aligns with the broader objective of enhancing self-sufficiency in animal protein while empowering rural households through sustainable livelihood activities.
Beneficiaries expressed satisfaction with the programme and said they look forward to successfully rearing the birds with technical guidance and support from the Department.
The programme marks another step in the Department’s continued efforts to support island farmers through timely inputs, extension services and technical assistance to promote sustainable livestock development in the region.
