Journal of Krishi Vigyan

The present study was conducted by Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Srikakulam to evaluate the productive and economic parameters of the improved breeds such as Vanaraja, srinidhi and Rajasri birds in the backyards as an income generation activity. Rural and tribal women of North coastal Andhra Pradesh are traditionally involved in rearing of back yard poultry as a livelihood option. Back yard poultry farming in Srikakulam district is mainly dependant on raising indigenous poultry birds which are slow in growth, poor food conversion ratio as well as prone to diseases frequently. A total of 150 units, with 20 birds, waterer and feeder each were supplied, to farm women spreading 74 villages, in 23 mandals in the district. One month old birds were supplied after completion of early day’s vaccination schedule. Technical assistance was given to the farmers through skill training programs, group discussions, advisory services and diagnostic field visits to enhance the knowledge level. The growth and economic parameters were collected by conducting field level survey. The results of the study revealed increased growth rate (116%) as well survival (93%) was observed, benefit cost ratio 2.02 and 1.05, and net returns per unit Rs.5150/- and Rs 220/- in superior breeds vanaraja/srinidhi and local birds respectively.