Two-day training programme on Commercial Broiler Management for Farmers under Kudumbasree Kerala Chicken Project at Academic Staff College, Mannuthy

Two-day training programme on Commercial Broiler Management for Farmers under Kudumbasree Kerala Chicken Project at Academic Staff College, Mannuthy

The Academic Staff College, Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (KVASU), Mannuthy, successfully organized a two-day training programme on Commercial Broiler Management for Farmers under the Kudumbasree Kerala Chicken Project on February 16 and 17, 2026. The programme was conducted with the objective of enhancing the technical knowledge and entrepreneurial skills of Kudumbasree farmers engaged in broiler production and to promote scientific, sustainable, and profitable poultry farming practices. The training witnessed enthusiastic participation from farmers who are actively involved in the Kerala Chicken Project, reflecting the growing interest in scientific poultry production and value addition.

The programme commenced with a formal inaugural function on February 16, 2026. The session began with a welcome address by Dr. Harikrishnan S, Assistant Professor and Head, UPDF. The function was presided over by Dr. Binoj Chacko, Director, CASPS, Mannuthy, who emphasized the importance of adopting modern technologies and sustainable practices in poultry production to meet the increasing demand for quality protein and ensure economic stability for farmers. The inaugural address was delivered by Dr. Shynu M, Associate Dean, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Mannuthy, who encouraged the participants to effectively utilize the training to improve productivity, maintain biosecurity, and adopt innovative feeding and management strategies. The inaugural session concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Stella Cyriac, Assistant Professor, AICRP on Poultry, Mannuthy.

The technical sessions were designed to provide comprehensive and practical exposure to all aspects of commercial broiler production. The first day sessions covered broiler production management, including strain selection, chick quality, brooding, and management practices from day one until marketing. Participants were also trained in scientific feeding management, nutritional and metabolic disorders, housing systems, equipment management, and strategies to manage summer stress. Special emphasis was given to biosecurity, vaccination schedules, and the prevention and control of infectious diseases in broilers. On the second day, the training focused on poultry processing and value addition, where participants were provided both theoretical and practical exposure. Sessions on marketing and economics of broiler production helped farmers understand cost-effective production and market linkages. The programme also addressed poultry waste management and environmental sustainability, highlighting eco-friendly practices in poultry farming.

The valedictory function began with a welcome address by Dr. Stella Cyriac and the function was presided over by Dr. V. N. Vasudevan, Director, Academic Staff College, KVASU, who appreciated the active participation of the trainees and highlighted the importance of continuous capacity building, scientific guidance, and institutional support for the success of poultry enterprises. Participants shared their feedback and expressed satisfaction regarding the relevance and usefulness of the training. The valedictory address was delivered by Dr. Thirupathy Venkatachalapathy, Director of Farms, KVASU, Mannuthy, who stressed the importance of integrated farming, value addition, and entrepreneurship for enhancing farm income and sustainability. Certificates were distributed to all participants, and the programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Harikrishnan S.