Sri Vijaya Puram, Sept. 6: In a significant initiative aimed at promoting sustainable backyard poultry farming and nutritional support among the Jarawa Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG), the Department of Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services, has for the first time distributed 200 indigenous Nicobari fowls to the Jarawa community on 3rd September, 2026 from the Government Poultry Farm, Dollygunj.
The birds were handed over to Shri Aswath, Tribal Welfare Officer, Kadamtala, for further distribution among the Jarawa community. The entire distribution has been made under 100% subsidy by the Department.
The Nicobari fowl has been specifically chosen because it is an indigenous poultry genetic resource of the A&N Islands and is well adapted to the local hot and humid climatic conditions. Being a hardy backyard bird, it is suitable for rearing under comparatively low-input conditions and can utilise locally available feed resources. The birds can provide both eggs and meat for household consumption.
The initiative is intended to inculcate a sense of domestication among the community and to teach them to rear hens for eggs and meat. The pilot programme will also help assess the adaptability and acceptance of backyard poultry farming among the Jarawa community and explore its potential for supplementary nutrition through availability of fresh eggs and poultry meat.