Best Indigenous Chicken Breeds for High Egg Production in India: A Guide for Profitable Poultry Farming

 Discover the top indigenous chicken breeds in India known for high egg production. Learn how farmers, students, and agri-entrepreneurs can build a profitable poultry business with desi breeds.

Introduction

India is home to a rich diversity of indigenous chicken breeds that are not only hardy and disease-resistant but also excellent layers of eggs. With the increasing demand for organic, chemical-free, and desi eggs, native poultry farming is emerging as a highly profitable sector. Unlike exotic breeds, these birds are well-adapted to local climatic conditions and require less input cost, making them ideal for small and medium-scale poultry enterprises.

This blog explores the best indigenous chicken breeds for high egg production in India and provides practical guidance for farmers, students, and agri-entrepreneurs looking to venture into native poultry farming.

                                                                          

Why Choose Indigenous Chicken Breeds for Egg Production?

Indigenous or desi chicken breeds offer numerous advantages for egg production:

• Hardiness: Adapted to Indian climate, resistant to many local diseases.

• Low Maintenance: Require less feed and care compared to exotic breeds.

• Organic Appeal: Desi eggs are preferred in urban and rural markets for their taste and nutrition.

• Better Survival Rates: Higher immunity and survival, even in backyard systems.

• Local Demand: Eggs from native breeds fetch higher prices in niche markets.

Benefits of Raising Desi Breeds

1. Cost-effective Farming: Low cost of feed, minimal medical expenses.

2. Sustainable Livelihood: Ideal for women and small-scale farmers.

3. Eco-Friendly Farming: Better waste utilization and no chemical input.

4. Market Premium: Growing demand for desi eggs and native meat.

5. Government Support: Subsidies and training programs are available.

                                                          

Top 10 Indigenous Chicken Breeds for High Egg Production

1. Kadaknath

• Origin: Madhya Pradesh

• Eggs/year: 100–120

• Specialty: Black meat, high medicinal value

• Benefits: High market demand, premium price

2. Aseel

• Origin: Andhra Pradesh

• Eggs/year: 70–90

• Specialty: Muscular body, traditional cockfighting breed

• Benefits: Good mothers, protective nature

3. Vanaraja

• Developed by: Project Directorate on Poultry (Hyderabad)

• Eggs/year: 140–180

• Specialty: Crossbreed with high egg yield

• Benefits: Suitable for rural backyard rearing

4. Giriraja

• Origin: Karnataka

• Eggs/year: 160–180

• Specialty: High egg and meat yield

• Benefits: Quick growth, dual purpose

5. Gramapriya

• Developed by: ICAR – Directorate of Poultry Research

• Eggs/year: 200–250

• Specialty: Best performer among indigenous types

• Benefits: Excellent backyard poultry breed

                                                                         

6. Kuroiler

• Origin: Crossbreed (India-based)

• Eggs/year: 150–200

• Specialty: High resilience

• Benefits: Popular in rural India, dual-purpose

7. Nicobari

• Origin: Nicobar Islands

• Eggs/year: 120–130

• Specialty: Unique body shape and feather pattern

• Benefits: Hardy, adapted to coastal climate

8. Jharsim

• Developed by: Jharkhand Department of Agriculture

• Eggs/year: 160–180

• Specialty: Dual-purpose breed

• Benefits: Excellent in free-range system

9. Kamrupa

• Developed by: Assam Agricultural University

• Eggs/year: 140–170

• Specialty: Multi-colored feathers

• Benefits: Disease resistance, good layer

10. Nati

• Origin: South India

• Eggs/year: 100–150

• Specialty: Naturally foraging birds

• Benefits: High immunity, loved in local markets

Breed-Wise Comparison Table

BreedEggs/YearClimate AdaptabilityMarket DemandSpecial Traits

Kadaknath100–120HighVery HighBlack meat, medicinal

Aseel70–90HighModerateAggressive, hardy

Vanaraja140–180HighHighFast growth

Giriraja160–180HighHighDual-purpose

Gramapriya200–250ModerateHighBest egg layer

Kuroiler150–200HighHighDual-purpose

Nicobari120–130ModerateNicheIsland adapted

Jharsim160–180HighModerateFree-range friendly

Kamrupa140–170HighHighDisease resistant

Nati100–150HighVery HighLocal preference

                                                                    

How to Improve Egg Production in Desi Breeds

• Selective Breeding: Choose high-yielding birds for reproduction.

• Balanced Nutrition: Supplement local feed with minerals and vitamins.

• Clean Water Access: Always provide fresh, clean water.

• Routine Vaccination: Prevent common poultry diseases.

• Lighting: Ensure proper light exposure (14–16 hours) for better laying.

Feeding & Nutrition Tips

• Use broken grains, kitchen waste, greens

• Add crushed shells or calcium supplements

• Include turmeric, garlic in feed for immunity

• Use fermented feed for better digestion

Housing & Management Tips

• Use low-cost bamboo or mud structures

• Ensure proper ventilation and dry floor

• Provide perches and nest boxes

• Maintain hygiene and remove waste daily

                                                                   

   

Common Challenges and Solutions

ChallengeSolution

Low egg productionBalanced feed, stress control

PredatorsFencing, secured night housing

DiseasesTimely vaccination, hygiene

Heat stressShade, water availability

Government Schemes Supporting Desi Poultry Farming

• Rashtriya Gokul Mission – Training and support

• NABARD Subsidies – Loans and infrastructure funding

• State Poultry Missions – Region-wise support schemes

• Skill India Training – Rural youth skill development in poultry

Real Farmer Success Story

Name: Ramesh Yadav, Uttar Pradesh
Breed: Gramapriya and Vanaraja
Initial Investment: ₹25,000
Monthly Income: ₹12,000–₹15,000
Remark: "Desi chicken farming gave me income and respect in my village."

Conclusion

Indigenous chicken breeds are a treasure trove of opportunity for rural India. With the right practices, farmers can not only preserve native biodiversity but also ensure sustainable income. Whether you're a beginner or an agri-entrepreneur, starting with these desi breeds ensures low investment and high returns, especially in egg production.

FAQs (SEO-Optimized)

Q1: Which desi chicken lays the most eggs?
A1: Gramapriya is considered one of the best indigenous breeds for high egg production, with 200–250 eggs per year.

Q2: Are desi eggs more nutritious?
A2: Yes, desi eggs have richer yolk, better taste, and higher nutritional content.

Q3: Can I do desi poultry farming in urban areas?
A3: Yes, with proper setup, small-scale desi poultry farming can be done in peri-urban and even urban areas.

Q4: How much can I earn from desi egg farming?
A4: Income varies, but small-scale farms can earn ₹10,000–₹30,000 per month depending on scale and market access.

Q5: Do indigenous chickens need vaccination?
A5: Yes, while hardy, routine vaccination ensures higher productivity and safety.

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suggested reading

1.Alternative Protein Sources for Animal Feed: A Sustainable Revolution in Animal Husbandry (2025 Guide)

2.Monsoon Diseases in Cattle and Goats: Complete Guide for Livestock Farmers

3.ICAR - Directorate of Poultry Research (India)