Sri Vijaya Puram, Jan. 16: The Department of Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services has successfully initiated the rearing and production of a new fast-growing variety of quails — Broiler Namakkal Quails — in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, marking a major step towards enhancing poultry diversity, meat production and farmer income in the islands.
As part of this initiative, 2500 Parent Stock Broiler Quail hatching eggs were procured from Veterinary College & Research Institute, Namakkal (Tamil Nadu). The hatching process was carried out at the Central Hatchery, Livestock Farm Complex, Dollygunj. The successfully hatched broiler quail chicks were reared at Livestock Farm Complex, Dollygunj until the birds reached egg-laying stage.
With the onset of egg production, the Department has started supplying fertile hatching eggs to other hatchery units. Under the first phase, 1,200 Broiler Quail hatching eggs have been dispatched to the Composite Livestock Farms at Hutbay, Basantipur and Sitanagar for further chick production and subsequent supply to farmers of these islands.
The Broiler Quails are known for their fast growth rate, reach marketable body weight within 5-6 weeks, early maturity start laying eggs by 6-7 weeks of age, high egg production produce 250-280 eggs per bird per year, low feed requirement and superior meat quality having better dressing percentage, dual purpose suitable both for egg and meat production. The species is considered ideal for small and marginal farmers due to its minimal space requirement and high economic return.
initiative is expected to provide a new income avenue for farmers of the islands, strengthen local meat and egg availability.