Improvement of rural livelihood through rearing of Chara-Chemballi ducks in Assam

Abstract

Assam is a region in the North–East of India and is known for the different groups of indigenous ducks reared by farmers under traditional systems (Islam et al., 2002). Previous surveys (Mahanta et al., 2001; Islam et al., 2002) have shown that the Pati breed constitute the majority (85.6%) of the duck population in Assam, but has poor egg production, with only 80-90 eggs per duck per year (Islam et al., 2002). In order to improve productivity and profitability from duck farming, a field study was conducted in 2003 in association with the Centre for Advance Studies in Poultry Science, Kerala Agricultural University regarding the duck production system in Kerala. Following this study, Chara-Chemballi ducks from Kerala were introduced by the State Institute of Rural Development (SIRD) for feasibility studies and performance evaluation under a range of conditions in Assam. These studies showed that the agro-climatic conditions of Assam are highly suitable for the Chara-Chemballi Ducks. SIRD implemented a special project for rearing Chara-Chemballi ducks by 1600 self help groups (SHGs) especially those involving women, in different districts of Assam. It has been reported that the average annual income from the SHGs involved was increased through back yard duck farming (Anon, 2005-2006). Following the successful implementation of this project for rearing Chara-Cemballi Duck, the Government of Assam has sponsored similar projects with all-women SHGs since 2006. The overall objectives of these projects were to improve the socio-cultural dimensions of poverty and the livelihood of the rural masses, especially women, in a sustainable manner through scientific management of Chara-Chemballi ducks of Kerala. The following paper reviews these projects and the milestones they represent.