Poultry expansion plans in Jammu and Kashmir raise concerns among farmers

In February, during the budget speech, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah announced plans to establish 800 commercial poultry units and 50,000 backyard poultry farms. The stated goal of the initiative is to produce approximately 250 million eggs and reduce reliance on external supplies.

This large-scale expansion program is being implemented during a challenging period for the industry. According to farmers, many commercial enterprises have already ceased operations or are experiencing severe financial pressure. Industry representatives note that until 2019, local production met about 85 percent of domestic consumption, but the situation changed after the government abolished a duty of about 9 rupees per kilogram on imported poultry. The loss of protective measures led to an influx of cheaper products from other states, a decline in demand for local poultry, and falling profitability amid persistent costs for feed, transport, and labor.

The industry, valued at 1,500 crore rupees, has found itself in a situation where state policy aims to expand capacities, while existing players face fierce competition. President of the Kashmir Valley Poultry Farmers Association, Ghulam Mohammad Bhat, pointed out that the government should first ensure the viability of existing enterprises before opening new ones. Industry representatives emphasize that although backyard farms can support rural incomes, commercial farms with established infrastructure also need support to maintain their viability.