Chandigarh, May 14 — The poultry population in the state has more than doubled over the past five years, marking a significant shift in livestock farming trends, according to the preliminary findings of the 21st Livestock Census.
The data shows a dramatic rise from 1.76 crore poultry birds reported in the 2019 census to 3.57 crore at present—most of them broilers and layers. This trend suggests growing public engagement in poultry as a commercial enterprise, officials said.
“A clear shift is underway. People are increasingly diversifying away from traditional cattle-based farming toward allied sectors like poultry, goat rearing, and even horse breeding,” said a senior official from the Animal Husbandry Department.
“This reflects a strategic change in how rural families view animal husbandry—as a more flexible, income-oriented venture.”
Dr. Gurdit Singh, Deputy Director of the department, attributed the boom to several key developments: “The absence of serious avian diseases in recent years, stable and favorable egg prices, and the expansion of contract farming have all played major roles.”
Under the contract farming model, companies provide chicks, feed, and veterinary support, while farmers contribute land, labor, and housing.
“Earlier, a farmer might have raised 5,000 birds. Now the same farmer is managing 10,000,” explained a local poultry farm owner.
“This model offers guaranteed returns, either through fixed payments or a share in the profits, which makes it attractive for small and mid-sized farmers.”
Animal Husbandry Minister Gurmeet Singh Khuddian acknowledged the upward momentum.
“The poultry population has more than doubled in just five years. This demonstrates people’s growing confidence in allied agricultural ventures,” he said.
However, Khuddian also raised concerns about the shrinking numbers of cattle and buffaloes.
“We’re closely examining the causes behind this decline. It’s important to preserve our traditional livestock base,” the minister stated.
“We plan to roll out new schemes to promote cattle and buffalo rearing and will step up awareness campaigns to restore balance in the sector.”
The department has indicated that more livestock fairs, training programs, and support schemes are on the anvil, aiming to both sustain the poultry boom and revive interest in conventional livestock farming.
