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Small-scale Broiler Rearing as an Income Generating Activity for Hard-core Women in Rural Bangladesh

M. A. Saleque
Programme Support Enterprise, Bangladesh Rural Advancement Committee, BRAC Building, Mohakhali, Dhaka

Md. Mafizul Islam
Bangladesh Livestock Research Institute, Savar, Dhaka-1314, Bangladesh.

Abstract/ Executive Summary:

The study was conducted during May 2001 to April 2003 in Dhunot Upazila under Bogra district with 78 randomly selected hard- core women rearing broiler through kerosene system of brooding/ lighting. The objectives of the study were to assess the growth performance and economic feasibility of rearing broiler without electricity in the remote rural areas. Thirteen batches of broiler were reared by each rearer with a duration of 34 - 40 days in each batch. The study revealed that the overall average live weight gain, feed intake and feed conversion ratio of broiler were 1.66 ± 0.05 kg, 2.92 ± 0.30 kg and 1.80 ± 0.17, respectively. Overall average mortality percentage in the area was very low (4.5%). The results showed that the overall mean profitability in terms of net returns from 113 birds was Tk.16911- with a benefit-cost ratio of 1.21: 1. Important implication emerging from the findings of the study is that in the remote rural areas where electricity is lacking or its supply is frequently interrupted even if available, broiler rearing without electricity is also feasible and profitable business to generate income, alleviate poverty and socio-economic upliftment for the hard-core poor families.

Keywords: Broiler, Rearing, Women, Rural Bangladesh

Location: Dhunot, Bogra

Start Date: 01-05-2001

End Date: 30-04-2003

Program Area: Socio-economic and Policy

Commodity: Poultry

Objectives:

1. To assess the feasibility of broiler rearing without electricity in the remote rural areas by the hard-core women,

2. To know its growth performance and economics.

Methodology:

The study was conducted in 4 different unions of Dhunot Upazila under Bogra district where greater concentration of broiler rearing without electricity was prevailing. A total of 78 out of 280 households from 4 unions were selected randomly who were involved in the programme for the last 2 years i.e. 2001 - 2003. The programme participants were selected from hard-core poor families. Training on broiler rearing and management were imparted to all selected 78 women before starting the programme. A loan support of Tk.10,000/- to every family was provided for making broiler house, purchase of day old chick, feed, vaccine etc. Poultry house was a low cost shed made of bamboo and the roof made of straw. The broiler strain was Arbor Acre and floor system of rearing was followed. Farmers used mesh feed and starter, grower and finisher diets were supplied during the whole experimental period. The calorie and protein contents were 3100- 3200 kcal and 22 - 23% C.P. respectively. Lighting was done by kerosene lamp and traditional heating system by rice husk/cowdung cake in a small pot was used as brooder. During the last 2 years 13 batches of broiler were reared. On an average, 113 day - old broiler chicks were reared in each batch by each woman for the period of 34 - 40 days. After completion of each batch IS days gap was maintained for cleaning and disinfecting the house with antiseptic to start a new cycle. The live broiler was sold to IIRD at the rate of Tk.52/- per kg at farm gate throughout the year which was re-sold by IIRD to traders in Dhaka. Net return on total cost was arrived at by deducting all the costs from gross return. Benefit-cost ratio (BCR) which implies return on per taka invested, was calculated as a ratio of gross return to total cost. IIRD coordinated the programme and ensured timely supply of inputs such as vaccine, medicine and feed as well as facilitated proper marketing of output. The vaccine and necessary medicine were used as per schedule. Data regarding body weight, mortality, income and expenditure were collected from the monthly closing report and checked by personal interview when needed.

Source of Information: BANGLADESH JOURNAL OF LIVESTOCK RESEARCH, Vol. 09 (1 & 2), (Jan - Dec) 2002, pp. 54-58, ISSN 1022 - 3851.

Article Link (Online Journal):

Funding Source:

Total Budget (Tk.) :

Achievement/Findings:

Performance of broiler reared by the hard- core poor under rural condition without electricity appeared promising in terms of higher growth rate in shorter period, lower amount of feed intake, better feed conversion efficiency and low mortality. Economic analysis with respect to net return and benefit-cost ratio revealed that broiler rearing without electricity was also a profitable venture. The most important aspect of the programme is the appropriate technical adaptation of broiler rearing by hard core poor families which has significantly contributed to raising their income level who otherwise remain idle or live without work. The programme now has made them active labour force. Thus, the results emanating from the above discussion suggested that small-scale broiler rearing could be very effective for the alleviation of poverty for the hard-core poor. In rural Bangladesh where there is unavailability of electricity, the hard-core poor families could augment income through small- scale broiler rearing by kerosene system of brooding. In addition to input support, training and technical supports are also called for effective expansion and successful implementation of the programme in other areas.

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