Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Ludhiana (GADVASU) conducted its monthly seminar with Independent Poultry Association (IPA) on 12.06.2023. Twenty eight broiler farmers took part in the seminar. The theme of the meet was role of millets in poultry nutrition. Elaborating this, Dr Parminder Singh; Professor Animal Science working in Directorate of Extension Education informed the farmers that Millets have been an integral part of our diet for centuries. In addition to a plethora of health benefits, millets are also good for the environment with low water & input requirement. With the aim to create awareness and increase production & consumption of millets, United Nations, at the behest of the Government of India, declared 2023 the International Year of Millets. To commemorate this, we are hosting this interactive seminar.
Bajra, Jowar, Cheena, Swank, Kangni, Ragi and Kodra are part of millets. Although the awareness about their health benefits in human food is increasing, we must also try to explore the use of millets in poultry rations. He emphasized particularly the use of bajra and jowar in the rations of the bird. He said these crops have more protein than maize; more calcium and spoilage due to aflatoxins are also negligible. He asked the farmers to incorporate up to 10% millets in the ration of birds replacing traditional cereals. The digestive system, gut health and immunity will improve. There would be comparability dry droppings resulting in less fly menace.
Dr PP Dubey; Scientist working in Directorate of Livestock Farm talked about the management of birds during monsoon. He advised the poultry farmers to decrease the density of the birds, provide regular water and offer feed during coolers hours of the day. If possible provide regular wind through fan, foggers etc. He cautioned about increase incidences of certain diseases during monsoon. He asked the farmers to use some electrolytes in the feed to prevent stress and keep the feeders dry as far as possible.
Mr Sanjay Sharma; President IPA informed the fellow farmers regarding prevailing, fluctuating broiler market. The rates available for their finish products are not satisfactory due to dumping of live birds by integrated companies. He requested the university and government authorities to look into this mater.