Stakeholders promote backyard, fancy poultry to boost Kashmir’s local production

Ganderbal. Oct 19: The two-day Livestock Show 2025 at Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, concluded at the University’s Shuhama campus in Ganderbal on Sunday, with primary focus on making Kashmir self-sustainable in mutton, poultry production.

While cattle, sheep, rabbits and fish displays drew their share of attention, it was the Division of Livestock Production and Management that truly stood out with its dazzling showcase of ornamental and backyard poultry breeds.

From elegant Silky Golden Sprite and Columbian Brahma to the striking Aseel, Polish Cap, Japanese Bantam and Pekan Bantam varieties, the stall resembled an array of colors. Farmers and entrepreneurs said that they were fascinated by ducks, turkeys, swans, and high-flyer pigeons which added to the attraction.

“Our aim is to encourage people to look beyond commercial broiler farming and explore backyard and ornamental poultry,” said Azmat Alam Khan, Registrar, SKUAST-K, and Principal Investigator for the All India Coordinated Research Project on Poultry.

The stall, which became one of the major crowd-pullers of the event, also highlighted SKUAST’s focus on entrepreneurship in animal farming. Officials and students from the division interacted with farmers and youth, explaining how ornamental and backyard poultry can be turned into viable ventures.

“This is a completely new concept for us. I had never seen such beautiful breeds before. They look like something out of a painting. I want to start this at home, not just for business, but because it brings joy,”  said Ghulam Muhammad, a farmer from Ganderbal.

Meanwhile, young agri-entrepreneurs also saw promise in the idea. “This is where technology meets tradition. Ornamental poultry can open up a niche market. People today want something unique, and this blends nature with livelihood,”said Mudasir, a poultry enthusiast.

As per an official press note: “Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development, Panchayati Raj, Cooperative and Election Departments, Javid Ahmad Dar presided over the valedictory session of Livestock Show–2025 (Pashudhan Mela) at SKUAST-K, Shuhama.He highlighted the critical role of agriculture and allied sectors in driving socio-economic development, especially for rural communities whose livelihoods depend on them. He underlined the importance of infrastructure development, access to finance, technological adoption, capacity building, and market linkages to ensure sustainable growth and prosperity for farmers.”