Poultry is a rapidly emerging sub-sector of Pakistan’s agriculture and is now in the 11th position in the global chain. Poultry farming more specifically feed and feeding, housing, fashioned ventilation, health management, biosecurity and vaccination has been crucial in food security/ development. In all kinds of poultry business, rural poultry farming is advantageous, particularly in Pakistan where organic farming and vast areas offer higher-yielding poultry.

Importance of Poultry Farming

Economically raised chickens hold a significant position in the state of agriculture all over the world and Poultry farming is invaluable for humanity serving food to the ever-increasing population, boosting economies and advocating sustainable poultry farming or environmentally safe practices of poultry farming. This covers the rearing of domestic birds including chickens, ducks, turkeys and geese for meat, eggs and feathers respectively. Here's how poultry farming benefits society and the economy:

• Food Security and Nutrition

Due to the increase in the global population, there is high pressure on the food production systems. Feeding the world’s population is well supported by poultry because it provides protein such as meat and eggs, which are crucial for human health. Protein helps to maintain tissues and also helps children to grow. Since poultry farming presents an inexpensive source of protein, the chicks increase nutritional accommodation where many families cannot afford expensive meats, thereby increasing the general health standard of the people.

• Economic Growth and Employment

The poultry industry offers diverse employment opportunities across both rural and urban areas. Jobs are created on farms, feed mills, hatcheries, and processing plants, providing income to millions. Poultry farming is also of much significance in rural Pakistan because it implements a sound poverty alleviation model among sets of interested poultry farmers, feed suppliers traders, etc.

• Environmental Sustainability

Poultry farming has been one of the most viable practices in the modern form of sustainable agriculture practices. They are useful when used as organic manure which aids the health of the soil, supports production of crops and reduces pollution from inorganic manure.

The Role of Rural Poultry Farming in Pakistan

Rural poultry farming in Pakistan has its unique benefits that include Organic Management, natural draft, and the availability of large areas.  Chickens in rural areas are often raised with no chemicals and antibiotics, reducing the risk of contamination and disease. Poultry also remain healthier in the open-air areas as opposed to crowded farms characteristic of most rural settings where disease infection is likely to spread. Recognizing these benefits, Fresh Meat, for example, sources chickens from rural areas to ensure better health and quality in its products.