Journal of Krishi Vigyan

An improved variety for backyard poultry namely Rajasri bird was distributed to rural farmers belonging to SC community to improve their livelihood in the year 2020 in Guntur district. A total of 1250 day old chicks were reared under deep litter system at Krishi Vignan Kendra, Sri Venkateswara Veterinary University, Guntur district up to the age of 6 wk on balanced diet and vaccinated as per the recommended protocol. At the end of 6^th week, a total of 900 birds were distributed to 45 identified SC beneficiaries free of cost. Each unit comprised of ten males and ten females (20 birds in each unit). In the present study, Rajasri birds achieved sexual maturity at the age of 165 d with an average body weight of 1300 - 1400 g. The average annual egg production/ bird was 160 - 170eggs per year with an average weight of 45 - 55 g, less mortality rate was observed in Rajasri birds. The results revealed a significant increase in income @Rs.8950/-per family per annum by sale of eggs and male birds and also a significant increase in consumption of eggs and meat among below poverty line (BPL) families.