Livestock Farming: 5 Viable & Low Cost Businesses to Start in Animal Husbandry Sector
Indians for centuries were involved in the primary sector occupation only. These included the activities that are directly linked to nature for instance agriculture, mining, animal husbandry etc. Till the date maximum number of people are employed in this sector only. Animal husbandry or livestock farming is also a very popular and viable business in the country. From dairy to poultry, there are several businesses one can start in the livestock farming industry. In order to benefit the people involved in the industry, the centre has launched the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) and e-Gopala App, a comprehensive breed improvement marketplace and information portal for direct use of farmers, which will do away with the role of middlemen in procurement and purchase.
Animal farming or livestock farming business in India is very promising. Livestock farming business can be operated from the backyard of one’s home or as small scale industry. It can be launched at a large scale also. However, not much investment or technological know-how is required to open a firm in this sector. Here are 5 businesses you can start in the animal husbandry or the livestock farming industry –
Dairy Farming
One of the most viable businesses in this sector is the dairy farming. The annual average milk production in India is 78 Million tonnes. Milk is the main raw material in numerous food and beverages widely demanded in India. Apart from this, it is highly popular in the cosmetics industry as well. Starting a dairy plant and distributing milk and related items is one of the most easiest and assured source of income in the country. Apart from milk production, the cow and buffalo waste can be sold to organic farming centres as well.
Pearl Farming
Another business that is viable and involves low cost in this sector is the pearly farming. One can start with initiate freshwater pearl culture as small scale basis. The production of a cultured pearl is a complex process that requires a thriving marine ecosystem, important knowledge and skill, and several years of patience. However, given the nature of the product, the business is profitable and growth driven.
Poultry Farming
Commercial poultry farming in India has been a source of steady income to various families over the years. All types of poultry products have good demand in the markets within the country as well as internationally. Highly productive local and foreign breeds are also available in the market for commercially successful poultry farming. Three major types of poultry species are broiler (for meat production), cockerels (for meat production) and layers (for egg production). With moderate investment one can start and survive this business.
Worm Farming
Earthworm production and rearing is an uncommon yet highly successful business. There has been an increasing demand of worms in composting industries. Worms can also be sold as baits in the fishery industry. Earthworm production is an enterprise that could be suitable for many small landowners. Operation with one or two worm beds requires only minimal setup costs, maintenance, and labour. However, certain amount of knowledge is required to start it.
Fish Farming
If you live near the coastal area, one of the most profitable businesses for you is the fish farming. One can start their own home based small scale fish farming with small capital investment and a nearby pond. Carp fish like Rahu and Katla, Tilapia, Prawn, Crab, and Shrimp are the major popular fishes in India. There is a huge demand fishes in the food industry. Apart from this, fish hatchery and ornamental fish farming also very profitable business with not much investment required.
Though livestock is comparatively a low cost business set-up, it requires an expertise in several aspects. One should be careful while selecting the right species according to the area, weather and soil condition as well as selecting the right breed. However, there is no denying that the livestock farming sector has been the source of livelihood for generations of a family and will continue to do so.