भाषा:

A woman farmer from Shikarpura village in the Nalchha block of Dhar district, Madhya Pradesh, has turned Kadaknath chicken rearing into a steady source of income. ETV Bharat reported on 14 October 2026 that Durgabai raises the black native birds for about six months and sells each one for ₹1,500 to ₹2,000. She says the money helped her buy a tractor and pay for her children’s education. She has been keeping Kadaknath for about 10 years, with chicks and feed from Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Dhar.

Key facts

ItemWhat the report says
FarmerDurgabai, Shikarpura village, Nalchha block, Dhar district, Madhya Pradesh
Years rearing KadaknathAbout 10 years (she reared goats before that)
Source of chicks and feedKrishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Dhar
Rearing period before saleAbout 6 months
Selling price₹1,500 to ₹2,000 per bird
What the income paid forA tractor and her children’s education
RecognitionHonoured at events in Bhopal, Gwalior and elsewhere
Expert quotedDr. S.S. Chauhan, senior scientist and head, KVK Dhar

Why Kadaknath is catching on in Dhar

Kadaknath is a native Indian breed linked to the tribal belt of Jhabua and Dhar in western Madhya Pradesh, where families have kept it for generations. Its feathers, skin, flesh and even bones are dark, and buyers value its distinct taste. The breed is widely believed to have lower fat and good iron in its meat, though the report notes that proper scientific data is needed to back such comparisons. “Jhabua Kadaknath” also carries a Geographical Indication (GI) tag.

According to the report, more farmers in Dhar villages near Jhabua are now keeping Kadaknath alongside their crops. Dr. S.S. Chauhan of KVK Dhar says interest in the breed is growing. The KVK trains farmers in goat rearing, poultry and other activities so they can build extra income next to farming, and earlier efforts under the ARYA scheme also aimed to link farmers to such livelihoods.

What it means for small poultry farmers

  • Premium price per bird: a Kadaknath sells for far more than an ordinary broiler, so even a small flock can bring useful cash.
  • Slow growth, longer wait: the birds take months, not weeks, to reach sale. Your money and feed are tied up longer, and losses from disease or predators hurt more.
  • Market is the real risk: the report itself says that breed protection, reliable chick supply, a proper market and a clear look at farmers’ real profit are needed before this can grow at scale. A high price only helps if you have a buyer.

How to start Kadaknath or desi bird rearing: what to do now

  • Get trained first. Visit your nearest KVK or the district veterinary office. Many run short courses on backyard poultry and can tell you about current government schemes.
  • Buy chicks from a trusted source. Get pure Kadaknath chicks from a KVK, a government hatchery or a veterinary university farm. Market birds sold as “Kadaknath” are often crosses. Ask whether the chicks got Marek’s vaccine at the hatchery.
  • Housing: a simple, dry, well-ventilated shed with a raised or well-drained floor and clean litter. Close the birds in at night with wire mesh to keep out dogs, cats, snakes and wild animals. Give young chicks warmth (brooding) in the first weeks.
  • Feed and water: birds can scavenge in the yard, but they still need regular grain or a balanced desi bird feed, plus clean water at all times. Growing chicks need starter feed until they are strong.
  • Vaccination basics: follow your vet’s schedule. The main ones are Marek’s (day one at the hatchery), Ranikhet (Newcastle disease, ND) with boosters, and fowl pox. Deworm regularly and keep sick birds apart.
  • Keep records: write down chick cost, feed, medicine and deaths, so you know your real profit per bird.
  • Plan your market before you buy: line up local buyers, hotels and dhabas, fairs, and farmer groups or cooperatives. Sell live birds directly where you can, and consider selling eggs and chicks too.
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FAQ

How much did Durgabai get for each Kadaknath bird?

The report says she sells each bird for ₹1,500 to ₹2,000 after rearing it for about six months.

Where can I get genuine Kadaknath chicks?

Durgabai got her chicks and feed from KVK Dhar. Ask your nearest KVK, government hatchery or animal husbandry department for pure chicks and training.

Does Kadaknath need vaccination like other chickens?

Yes. Desi birds also get Marek’s disease and Ranikhet. Vaccinate as your vet advises and keep the shed clean and dry.

Source: ETV Bharat (Hindi), 14 Oct 2026. Written by the IMN Pyrophos team in our own words.

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