Government focussing on backyard poultry to help BPL families

NEW DELHI: The government is focussing on backyard poultry as it was crucial for the livelihood and nutritional security of families below poverty line, Lok Sabha was informed today.

Under the National Livestock Mission ( NLM), there are various components including for rural backyard poultry development.

During Question Hour, Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Radha Mohan Singh said focus was being given to backyard poultry "which is crucial for livelihood and nutritional security of BPL families".

"The strengthening of breeding capacities for birds suitable for backyard rearing... is also given due importance," he said in a written reply.

Under NLM, the Rural Backyard Poultry Development provides for supporting and encouraging BPL families for rearing of backyard poultry which helps provide supplementary income and family nutrition for the beneficiaries.

"NLM provides the flexibility for state governments to propose projects/programmes as per their priority. During the current 2015-16, Rs 116.44 crore has been allocated under NLM," he said.

There is no separate allocation for poultry.