Punjab, Pakistan has emerged as a leading hub for poultry farming, supported by a comprehensive network of institutions, research centers, and government-backed initiatives. Poultry farming plays a significant role in the province’s economy, contributing to food security, employment, and rural development.
Institutional Backbone of Punjab’s Poultry Sector
The Poultry Research Institute (PRI), based in Rawalpindi, is the main organization driving research and innovation in the poultry sector. Established in 1978, the institute operates under the Livestock and Dairy Development Department (L&DD) of the Government of Punjab.
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Key functions of PRI include:
- Research and development in poultry breeding, nutrition, and disease control
- Production and distribution of high-yielding poultry breeds suitable for both commercial and rural settings
- Operation of a network of 10 disease diagnostic laboratories across Punjab
- Training programs for farmers, technicians, and industry professionals
- Surveillance and vaccination against major poultry diseases
PRI also collaborates with academic institutions such as the University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences (UVAS) and the University of Agriculture Faisalabad (UAF) to support innovation and training.
Regulatory and Licensing Support
The Livestock and Dairy Development Department (L&DD) facilitates licensing, inspections, and regulatory compliance through its Business Facilitation Centers (BFCs). These centers are designed to streamline the legal processes for:
- Registering poultry farms and hatcheries
- Approving feed mills and compound feed manufacturers
- Ensuring biosecurity and environmental safety standards
The Punjab Poultry Production Act, 2016, and the Feedstuff & Compound Feed Act, 2016, are enforced to maintain quality and control in the production and marketing of poultry products and feeds.
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Government-Backed Subsidy Programs
The Government of Punjab provides targeted subsidies to support rural poultry development. One such initiative includes offering a poultry unit consisting of five hens and one rooster to rural households at a subsidized rate, with a 30% cost reduction. This program promotes egg production, nutritional support, and income generation for low-income families.
Diagnostic and Research Services
PRI’s diagnostic labs provide free services to farmers for disease detection, enabling early intervention and reducing mortality rates. Current research projects focus on:
- Breed improvement (e.g., Aseel and other native breeds)
- Use of bacteriophages as alternatives to antibiotics
- Analysis of antibiotic and hormone residues in poultry meat and eggs
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Future of Poultry Farming in Punjab
Punjab’s poultry sector is poised for growth through digitization and smart farming. The government aims to introduce modern technology, improve disease resistance, and ensure food safety through better regulations and farmer education.
Final Thoughts
Punjab Poultry Services offer an integrated solution for poultry farmers, from small-scale rural producers to commercial operators. Through dedicated research, effective regulation, and farmer support programs, Punjab continues to lead the way in sustainable poultry farming in Pakistan. Keep visting: Bloom Pakistan
