Poultry and dairy farming are important sources of income for rural families in India. Village-based farmers often face challenges like a lack of knowledge, poor infrastructure, and limited market access. Veterinary Incubation Foundation (VIF) under TANUVAS has taken major steps to support farmers in the poultry and dairy sectors.
VIF offers training, technical help, financial advice, and market support to help farmers become successful entrepreneurs. Agriculture and animal husbandry can be turned into profitable businesses through proper guidance.
Table of Contents
What is VIF?
- Veterinary Incubation Foundation (VIF) is part of Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (TANUVAS).
- VIF is set up to support innovations in animal sciences and to promote agribusiness ideas.
- Farmers, youth, and women are encouraged to become self-reliant through poultry and dairy-based enterprises.
Support by VIF in Poultry Entrepreneurship
Key Contributions:
- Training programs are organized to teach basic and advanced poultry farming methods.
- Low-cost housing models for poultry are introduced to save money.
- Disease management techniques are shared to reduce bird mortality.
- Feeding practices are improved to increase egg and meat production.
- Hatchery units and breed development are promoted for better chick quality.
Poultry Entrepreneurship Support
| Area of Support | Details |
|---|---|
| Training | Hands-on training in poultry farming methods |
| Infrastructure | Guidance for low-cost poultry sheds |
| Disease Management | Vaccination schedules and biosecurity measures |
| Feed Administration | Tips for balanced diet and feed formulations |
| Breed Advance | Support for native and high-yield breed development |
| Marketing Assistance | Linkages to local markets and buyer networks |
Support by VIF in Dairy Entrepreneurship
Key Contributions:
- Dairy farmers receive training on animal care, milking, and feed.
- Modern equipment and techniques are introduced for better productivity.
- Artificial insemination and breed selection support are provided.
- Cow and buffalo health camps are conducted regularly.
- Value-added ideas like paneer, ghee, and curd preparation are promoted.
Dairy Entrepreneurship Support
| Area of Support | Details |
|---|---|
| Animal Health | Regular health camps and vaccination drives |
| Feeding and Nutrition | Guidance on green fodder cultivation and mineral mix usage |
| Milking Techniques | Demonstration of hygienic and efficient milking practices |
| Breeding Support | Help in artificial insemination and breed improvement |
| Value Addition | Training in dairy product preparation and packaging |
| Financial Guidance | Advice on dairy loans and government subsidies |
Training & Workshops by VIF
- Regular workshops are held to train farmers, rural youth, and women.
- Skill-building sessions are conducted by animal science experts.
- Practical exposure is given through field visits and model farm demonstrations.
- Entrepreneurship development programs focus on cost analysis, business planning, and sales techniques.
Training Program Highlights
| Program Type | Topics Covered |
|---|---|
| Short-term Poultry Course | Broiler and layer farming, vaccination, feeding |
| Dairy Management Workshop | Broiler and layer farming, vaccination, and feeding |
| Women Empowerment Training | Home-based dairy/poultry business ideas |
| Agribusiness Start-up Camp | Milking, disease control, and fodder planning |
Success Stories of Farmers
- Many farmers have successfully started their poultry and dairy units after VIF training.
- Women in villages have formed self-help groups to manage small poultry farms.
- Youth who were unemployed have now become local suppliers of milk and eggs.
- Native breeds like Aseel and Gir cows are being raised with better care.
- Farmers have reported increased profits after adopting scientific methods.
Financial & Marketing Help by VIF
- Financial planning sessions are provided to help farmers understand costs and profits.
- Guidance is given to apply for bank loans and government schemes like PM Kisan or NABARD.
- Market linkages are built with dairy cooperatives, poultry buyers, and food companies.
- Branding and packaging help is provided for value-added products.
Financial and Market Assistance
| Type of Help | Services Offered |
|---|---|
| Loan Support | Assistance in documentation and application for farm loans |
| Scheme Awareness | Information on state and central schemes for dairy/poultry farmers |
| Marketing Linkages | Connection with buyers and local markets |
| Branding Help | Label designing and packaging support for dairy products |
Technology Support and Innovation
- Smart farming tools and mobile apps are introduced to monitor animal health and farm data.
- Innovations in feed preparation and waste management are shared.
- Solar-powered poultry units and automatic milking machines are demonstrated.
- Farmers are guided to use ICT (Information and Communication Technology) tools.
Benefits for Farmers
- Income levels have increased due to better farm productivity.
- Farm losses are reduced because of improved disease control.
- Women are empowered to earn independently through backyard farming.
- Youth are staying in villages instead of migrating to cities.
- Local food security is improved with more milk, meat, and egg production.
Looking Ahead
VIF is creating a big impact by turning farmers into confident entrepreneurs. Poultry and dairy farming are no longer seen as traditional jobs but as business opportunities. Technical training, financial guidance, and market support are changing rural lives. VIF continues to inspire and uplift rural communities by building self-reliant farmers.
