Mohammad Ishaq Ansari, a resident of Kalan village in the Manjhi block of Bihar's Chapra district, has set a practical example in rural agribusiness through low-cost free-range poultry farming. By developing a specialized housing and feeding layout in an open field, he generates substantial income directly from home while keeping operational expenses minimal.
Innovative Fenced Boundary and Natural Foraging System
Instead of restricting birds to conventional enclosed sheds, Ishaq Ansari constructed a small shelter centered within an open plot surrounded by a perimeter boundary. During the day, the chickens roam freely inside this secured area. They actively forage for soil insects and naturally fallen grains across the plot. This self-contained feeding habit dramatically lowers reliance on commercial feed, which typically forms the largest operating cost in poultry ventures.
Physical Activity Promotes Disease Resistance and Faster Growth
The free-range arrangement allows birds to move constantly in natural sunlight and air. Regular movement improves their overall physical conditioning, making them significantly less susceptible to common poultry infections. Furthermore, the combination of natural foraging and daily exercise enables the chickens to gain weight at a noticeably faster pace compared to caged birds.
Transition from White Broilers to Resilient Desi Breeds
Reflecting on his past farming experience, Ishaq Ansari noted that he previously raised white farm chickens. However, those birds suffered from high illness rates, requiring frequent medication and causing recurrent financial losses. To resolve this issue, he shifted completely to indigenous desi poultry breeds. These native birds possess strong natural immunity, fall sick rarely, and thrive in open outdoor conditions with reduced feed expenditures.
Self-Reliant Hatching and Four-Stream Revenue Model
To further maximize profit margins, Ishaq Ansari hatches and prepares chicken chicks on his own premises rather than purchasing them from external suppliers. His business generates steady revenue through four distinct channels: eggs, young chicks, full-grown roosters, and adult hens. Encouraging other rural farmers, he highlights that adopting this low-investment desi poultry framework offers a dependable home-based livelihood with minimal financial risk.
