A five-day hands-on training programme on poultry production technology was inaugurated at the School of Agricultural Sciences (SAS), Nagaland University, Medziphema Campus, on June 1.
The programme is being organised by the Farmers’ Cell, SAS, Nagaland University, in collaboration with the Department of Livestock Production and Management.
Speaking at the inaugural programme, Pro Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dipak Sinha highlighted the potential of the livestock and poultry sector in Nagaland and noted that the state continues to depend heavily on imports to meet demand for meat and animal-based products.
He encouraged participants to view poultry farming as a viable enterprise capable of generating income, employment and rural development, while stressing the importance of skill-based training and entrepreneurship.
Introducing the programme, Prof. Catherine Rutsa, Head of the Department of Livestock Production and Management, said the training would focus on practical learning to equip participants with skills required for poultry enterprises.
Prof. L. Tongpang Longkumer, Professor-in-Charge of the Extension Cell, said the training was being organised in response to growing demand for poultry products and the need to create livelihood opportunities for rural youth.
Prof. J. Longkumer of the Department of Agricultural Extension Education emphasised the importance of youth participation in agriculture and financial literacy for sustainable farm enterprises.
A total of 12 participants from different parts of Nagaland have enrolled in the programme.
The training, which will continue until June 5, covers poultry housing, brooding and chick management, feeding practices, health care, disease prevention, vaccination, record keeping and enterprise management.