Introduction: Why Goat Farming is Booming in India
India is an agricultural country where animal husbandry plays a critical role in the rural economy. Among various livestock businesses, goat farming has emerged as one of the most profitable ventures, especially for small and marginal farmers.
With low investment, high returns, and rising demand for goat meat (chevon) and milk, starting a goat farming business can be your next big step toward financial freedom.
Whether you’re from a rural village or a suburban town, this guide will walk you through every step of building a successful goat farming business in India—from choosing breeds to calculating profits, and getting government subsidies.
.png "Stall-Fed Goat Farming Shed with Proper Housing Layout")
Why You Should Start a Goat Farming Business in India
1. Ever-Growing Market Demand
India is the largest goat meat consumer in the world.
Goat meat is considered lean, healthy, and high in protein.
Demand spikes during festive seasons and weddings.
Growing urban preference for organic and farm-fresh meat.
2. Affordable Startup Cost
Lower infrastructure and maintenance cost compared to poultry or dairy.
Can be started with as low as ₹50,000–₹1,00,000.
3. High Breeding & Reproduction Rate
One doe (female goat) can give 2-3 kids per year.
Fast multiplication leads to faster herd expansion.
4. Government Support & Subsidies
Central and state governments support goat farming through NABARD, Animal Husbandry Department, and Livestock Mission Schemes.
5. Ideal for Unemployed Youth and Women
Promotes self-employment and rural development.
Encourages participation in livelihood improvement programs.
Step-by-Step Guide to Start Goat Farming in India
🔍 1. Research & Planning
Choose the type of farming: meat, milk, or breeding purpose.
Decide between stall-fed, semi-intensive, or free-range system.
Analyze local demand, fodder availability, and disease risks.
Prepare a goat farming project report to get loans or subsidies.
2. Best Goat Breeds in India (Meat & Milk Purpose)
| Breed | Region | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Sirohi | Rajasthan | Heat tolerant, good weight gain |
| Boer | Imported (South Africa) | Fastest growing, best for meat |
| Osmanabadi | Maharashtra | Dual-purpose, disease resistant |
| Jamunapari | Uttar Pradesh | Heavy milk yield |
| Black Bengal | Eastern India | Small size, high meat quality |
| Barbari | Northern India | Compact, early maturity |
Tip: Always choose locally adaptable breeds with high productivity and disease resistance.
3. Goat Shed & Housing
Elevated, well-ventilated shed to avoid waterlogging.
Minimum space: 10–15 sq. ft per adult goat.
Use bamboo, wood, or bricks for low-cost construction.
Divide into sections: bucks, does, pregnant goats, and kids.
4. Feeding & Fodder Management
Provide a balanced diet: green fodder, dry fodder, concentrates, and clean water.
Important plants: Berseem, Lucerne, Azolla, Subabul, Napier.
Offer mineral mixture and salt lick to boost immunity and fertility.
Maintain a feeding schedule and track consumption to reduce wastage.
5. Health Care & Vaccination Schedule
Routine deworming every 3–6 months.
Vaccination chart:
Disease Vaccine Age/Dose PPR Raksha-PPR At 3 months, then yearly Enterotoxemia ET vaccine 3 months, then every 6 months Foot & Mouth FMD vaccine Twice a year Goat Pox Live vaccine Annually
Always keep the shed clean and disinfected.
Keep a trained veterinarian on call.
6. Goat Farming Business Cost Breakdown
| Item | Cost Estimate |
|---|---|
| Shed Construction | ₹50,000–₹70,000 |
| Purchase of 20 Goats + 1 Buck | ₹1,40,000–₹1,80,000 |
| Feed (6 months) | ₹30,000–₹40,000 |
| Medicines & Vaccination | ₹5,000 |
| Fodder Cultivation/Storage | ₹10,000 |
| Miscellaneous Expenses | ₹10,000 |
| Total Investment | ₹2,45,000–₹3,15,000 |
7. Profit Margin & Goat Farming Income Calculation
Let’s take a case study for 1-year:
20 female goats = 40 kids annually (2 per goat)
Kid survival rate = 90% → 36 kids
Average selling price per kid (8 months) = ₹5,000
Total income = ₹1,80,000
After deducting annual expenses (₹40,000–₹50,000):
Net Profit = ₹1,30,000–₹1,40,000/year
Profit increases year-by-year as breeding stock grows and shed cost is one-time.
Subsidies & Loans for Goat Farming in India
1. NABARD Goat Farming Scheme
Up to 33% subsidy for SC/ST, 25% for others.
Covers shed cost, animals, equipment, etc.
Must apply through recognized banks with project report.
2. Eligibility Criteria
Indian citizen, 18+ years
Land or lease for fodder or shed
Basic training preferred (can be from local Krishi Vigyan Kendra)
3. How to Apply
Draft a project report with cost, returns, and technical details.
Submit application to bank manager.
The bank forwards it to NABARD or state agency.
Once approved, you receive a loan and subsidy post-inspection.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Goat Farming
Starting without proper training or planning
Overcrowding leads to infections and weight loss
Poor record-keeping of feed, breeding, and sales
Ignoring vaccination and health routines
No market linkage or buyer contacts in place
? Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. How much land is needed for 100 goats?
For stall-fed model, 0.5 to 1 acre is enough including housing and fodder.
Q2. Can goat farming be done as a part-time business?
Yes, but it requires daily attention, so family support or a caretaker is needed.
Q3. What is the ROI (Return on Investment)?
With a small herd, 40–60% ROI is possible within 1–2 years.
Q4. Is goat milk profitable in India?
Yes, especially in urban health markets—used in cosmetics, baby food, and ayurveda.
Q5. What are some profitable goat products to sell?
Goat meat (chevon)
Goat milk
Breeding goats
Manure
Goat milk soap and cosmetics (value-added)
Conclusion: Start Smart, Earn Big with Goat Farming in India
Goat farming in India is not just a source of income—it's a life-changing opportunity. With the right approach, training, and business mindset, you can turn a few goats into a thriving commercial enterprise.
Start small, reinvest your profits, and build your goat empire step-by-step.
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