Socio-economic empowerment of women self help group through backyard poultry farming in Mandla district

Role of Women in Animal Husbandry cannot be separated but their contribution is mostly neglected. The present study was conducted in six villages of Narayanganj and Niwas blocks of Mandla District to empower women self help groups. For integration of Narmada Nidhi among tribal women SHGs extension interventions like awareness camps, exposure visits and trainings on poultry management were organized in the study areas. Data were collected from 6 women self help groups through a structured interview schedule by personal interview method. Results revealed that, each tribal SHGs were economically benefitted as they received an average income of ₹17,032 during the 8 months study period. Proper extension strategies like awareness campaigns, exposure visits and training helps in capacity building of tribal people. Thus, appropriate extension cum technological interventions (Narmada Nidhi Backyard poultry) played an important role to empower tribal women socially and economically, as it generates cash income and provides employment opportunities, while increasing production of valuable foods (eggs and meat) that improve household nutrition.