Small backyard poultry units are increasingly finding space in homes across Srinagar and other districts of Kashmir, with families taking up poultry rearing for fresh eggs, chemical-free meat and, in some cases, as a hobby that allows children to engage with nature.
From Srinagar to other parts of the Valley, households are starting with a few chicks and gradually expanding their flocks. While some rear local egg-laying breeds primarily for household consumption, others are investing in ornamental and exotic varieties that have emerged as a niche interest among poultry enthusiasts.
The trend is being driven by rising chicken prices, growing awareness about food quality and concerns among some consumers about commercially available poultry. Several families say they are more comfortable consuming eggs and meat from birds they rear themselves.
Muhammad Afzal, a resident of Hazratbal, said what began with a single chick had grown into a flock of around 20 birds of different breeds.
“We initially bought one small chick for our children. Gradually we added more breeds, and today we get fresh eggs almost every day. Whatever meat we consume also comes from our own birds,” he said.
He said backyard poultry had also become a pastime for the family.
“The children spend time feeding and looking after the birds instead of remaining glued to mobile phones. They are learning responsibility and enjoying nature. We also have peace of mind because we know what our birds are eating. There are many concerns about commercial poultry and we prefer eating what we rear ourselves,” he said.
Residents said discussions on social media about poultry quality, including claims about the use of growth promoters and other practices in commercial farming, had also encouraged some families to consider home rearing. Health experts have, meanwhile, advised consumers to source poultry from reliable outlets and follow proper food-safety practices.
Alongside household rearing, ornamental poultry has emerged as a niche segment, attracting young entrepreneurs and enthusiasts.
Mohsin Majeed of Mulfaq, Hazratbal, who runs Rather Poultry Farm, said he had been associated with poultry farming for more than a decade.
“I started with conventional poultry but later shifted towards indigenous layers and ornamental breeds because people wanted something different. Interest has grown tremendously over the last few years,” he said.
Mohsin keeps several exotic breeds, including Jubilee Orpington, Swedish Flower Hen, Phoenix, Columbian Brahma, Porcelain Brahma, Golden Sebright and Silver Sebright.
“Prices depend entirely on the breed and quality. Some birds sell for around Rs 1000, while premium ornamental pairs can fetch anywhere between Rs 40,000 and Rs 80,000. There are enthusiasts who willingly invest in these breeds. At the same time, many customers prefer affordable local egg laying birds for their homes,” he said.
According to Mohsin, demand is coming not only from people planning to start poultry farms but also from families seeking to produce eggs and meat at home.
“People are becoming more conscious about what they eat. Many want fresh, naturally raised poultry and are setting up small backyard units. Every week I receive enquiries from people who want to start with just a few birds before gradually expanding,” he said.
With backyard poultry increasingly serving as both a household food source and a leisure activity, the practice that was once more closely associated with rural households is gradually gaining a foothold in urban homes across Kashmir.
