Semi-Intensive Native Chicken Farming Integrated with Pig Farming: An Economic Analysis
G. H. Hudson *
Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Directorate of Extension Education, Veterinary University Training and Research Centre, Nagercoil, Kanyakumari District, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
A study was conducted at a native chicken cum pig farm in Kanyakumari District, Tamil Nadu, India, to evaluate its economic feasibility. The native chicken unit yields regular income to the farmer, where the adult chickens, eggs, and day-old chicks are sold to local households on a demand basis at a premium prize. The poultry unit operates at a yearly benefit-cost ratio (BCR) of 3.92, which is attributed to the scavenging nature of the native birds, thereby reducing feed costs. The birds scavenge on maggots produced in the manure pit of the piggery unit, which satisfy the protein requirements of the birds. On the other hand, the piggery unit provides supplementary income to the farmer. The pigs are maintained on swill feed with no additional feed cost. The study demonstrates the feasibility of similar integrated farms with significant production and economic potential.
Keywords: Native chicken, pigs, integrated farm, maggots, economic analysis