A complete guide on quail farming in India covering breeds, housing, feeding, breeding, disease management, profitability, and future scope.
Introduction
Quail farming is gaining popularity in
India due to its low investment, fast returns, and growing market demand for
quail meat and eggs. This advisory provides detailed information on breeds,
management, feeding, health care, and marketing to help farmers establish a
successful quail farming business.
Benefits of Quail Farming
1. Low initial investment compared to
chicken or duck farming.
2. Quails mature quickly and start laying eggs within 6-7 weeks.
3. High demand for quail meat and eggs due to rich nutritional value.
4. Small housing space required, suitable for backyard and commercial farming.
5. Resistant to many common poultry diseases.
6. Opportunities for value addition through meat
processing and packaging.
Popular Quail Breeds
The most commonly farmed quail breeds in
India include Japanese Quail, Bobwhite Quail, and Chinese Painted Quail.
|
Breed |
Purpose |
Key Features |
|
Japanese
Quail |
Egg and
Meat |
High egg
production, early maturity |
|
Bobwhite Quail |
Meat |
Larger size, popular for game meat |
|
Chinese
Painted Quail |
Ornamental/Pet |
Small size,
colorful plumage |
Housing & Management
Quails require well-ventilated housing with
proper protection from predators and extreme weather. Cage systems are widely
used in commercial quail farms as they reduce mortality and improve egg
collection.
Feeding & Nutrition
Balanced feeding is critical for growth,
egg production, and overall health of quails.
|
Stage |
Feed Type |
Protein % |
|
Chick
(0-3 weeks) |
Starter
feed (crumbles) |
26-28% |
|
Grower (3-6 weeks) |
Grower feed |
22-24% |
|
Layer (6
weeks+) |
Layer feed
with calcium supplement |
20-22% |
Breeding & Hatching
Quails start laying eggs at 6-7 weeks. For
breeding, maintain a ratio of 1 male to 3-4 females. Eggs can be incubated
artificially using incubators set at 37.5°C with 60-70% humidity. Incubation
period is around 16-18 days.
Health & Disease Management
Quails are hardy birds but can suffer from
bacterial, viral, and parasitic infections if biosecurity is weak.
|
Disease |
Symptoms |
Prevention/Control |
|
Coccidiosis |
Bloody
droppings, weakness |
Maintain
hygiene, coccidiostats in feed |
|
Newcastle Disease |
Respiratory distress, nervous signs |
Vaccination, strict biosecurity |
|
Parasitic
Infestation |
Poor
growth, feather loss |
Deworming,
regular cleaning |
Quail Products & Marketing
Quail products include meat, eggs, and
value-added products such as pickled quail eggs. Market opportunities exist in
local markets, restaurants, hotels, and export. Proper branding and packaging
enhance value.
Government Schemes & Subsidies
Several government schemes under poultry
development provide subsidies, training, and financial assistance for quail
farming. Farmers can approach NABARD, state animal husbandry departments, and
poultry boards for support.
Profitability & Business Plan
Quail farming is highly profitable. With
low feed cost and early maturity, farmers can start earning within 2 months. On
average, a 500-bird quail farm can generate significant monthly income
depending on market prices and management.
Challenges & Solutions
Challenges include lack of awareness,
limited veterinary support, and market fluctuations. Solutions include farmer
training, cooperative marketing, and adopting modern farm management practices.
Future Scope in Quail Farming
Growing demand for organic poultry, rising
health-conscious consumers, and export opportunities make quail farming a
promising business. Integration with other farming systems can further increase
income sources.
Conclusion
Quail farming offers a sustainable and
profitable business opportunity for small, medium, and commercial farmers. By
adopting scientific practices in housing, feeding, breeding, and health care,
farmers can achieve long-term success.
suggested reading
1.Animal Husbandry in India – Meaning, Importance & Types
2.Backyard Goat Hustle: From ₹50k Investment to ₹20,000 Monthly Profit
3.National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) – Poultry Farming
