Sri Vijaya Puram, Nov. 18: The Department of Rural Development, in association with the Department of Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services (AH&VS) and ICAR-CIARI, organised a lively Saras Mela that attracted large crowds with its rich display of poultry breeds, innovative products, and livelihood opportunities.
A major attraction was the Poultry Exhibition coordinated by AH&VS, featuring a diverse range of improved breeds including Vanraja, Gramapriya, Chabro, Sonali, White Pekin ducks, and Khaki Campbell ducks. Live demonstrations of Azolla cultivation and hydroponic fodder units highlighted affordable, year-round green feed options for farmers.
The Nari Shakti Self-Help Group delighted visitors by preparing and selling value-added egg delicacies such as egg balls, egg lollipops, and egg chops, demonstrating how rural women can generate additional income through simple yet creative food products.
Veterinary experts from AH&VS provided on-the-spot guidance on vaccination protocols and biosecurity measures to help farmers maintain healthy flocks.
Progressive poultry farmer Shri Cumoiden from Calicut, Little Andaman, set up a popular stall offering Sonali chicks, White Pekin ducklings, and Khaki Campbell ducklings for direct sale, enabling farmers to immediately acquire high-yielding, adaptable breeds for their backyard units.
The Saras Mela reaffirmed the Department of Rural Development’s commitment to empowering rural communities, promoting women-led enterprises, and fostering sustainable livelihoods through close collaboration with AH&VS and ICAR-CIARI.