- High-Profit Potential: Average yearly profit of ₹4–5 lakhs from 1000 layer birds.
- Best Egg-Laying Breeds: White Leghorn, BV 300, ISA Brown are top performers
- Affordable Setup Cost: ₹5.3 lakhs estimated cost for 1000 birds (shed, feed, equipment included)
- High Yield: One chicken lays 280–300 eggs per year under good management
- Farming Systems: Battery cage system gives higher yield; deep litter is low-cost but less efficient
- Feed is Key: Feed makes up 65–70% of total recurring cost; balanced nutrition boosts egg count
- Start Small & Scale: Begin with 500–1000 birds; expand as you gain experience
Egg poultry farming is one of the most profitable and rapidly growing agribusinesses in India. With increasing demand for eggs due to their nutritional value, more farmers are turning to this low-investment, high-return venture. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced farmer, this step-by-step guide will help you start and grow a successful egg poultry farming business in India.
What is Egg Poultry Farming?
Egg poultry farming refers to raising specific breeds of chickens, called layers, that are cultivated for egg production rather than meat. These birds start laying eggs at 18–20 weeks and continue for 72–80 weeks.
Note: Egg production is higher when layers are kept in controlled environments with proper feed and disease management.
Why Start Egg Poultry Farming in India?
- High demand: India ranks 3rd in global egg production (INFA, 2025).
- Low investment, high return: Initial cost is moderate; ROI is strong.
- Employment: Generates income for rural youth and women.
- Fast turnover: Layers begin laying within 5 months.
- Government support: Loans, training, and subsidies are available.
Tip: Layer farming is suitable for small landowners and can be started with as few as 100 birds.
Types of Egg-Laying Chickens
| Breed Name | Eggs/Year | Egg Shell Color | Suitable For |
|---|---|---|---|
| White Leghorn | 280–320 | White | Commercial farms |
| Hy-Line | 300–320 | Brown/White | Organic farming |
| ISA Brown | 280–300 | Brown | Backyard farms |
| BV 300 | 300–310 | White | Small & large scale |
| Vanaraja (Govt.) | 180–220 | Brown | Rural/backyard |
Expert Tip: Choose a breed based on market demand and climate.
Layer Poultry Farming Systems
1. Deep Litter System
- Birds move freely on the floor covered with straw.
- Low cost, suitable for rural/backyard.
2. Battery Cage System
- Birds were kept in individual cages with feed, water.
- Higher egg yield, easy management, less wastage.
| System | Setup Cost | Mortality Rate | Egg Collection |
|---|---|---|---|
| Deep Litter | ₹15–20/layer | High (5–8%) | Manual |
| Cage System | ₹30–35/layer | Low (1–3%) | Automatic/Manual |
Note: Cage systems are best for commercial-scale farming.
How to Start Egg Poultry Farming – Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Market Research & Business Plan
- Understand local egg demand.
- Check egg selling rates (₹4.5–₹6/egg average).
- Prepare a cost & ROI projection.
Step 2: Choose a Suitable Location
- Away from residential zones.
- Clean water and power supply.
- Minimum 1 acre for 1000+ birds.
Step 3: Shed Construction
- Ventilation, insulation & drainage are key.
- Ideal: 600 sq ft for every 100 birds.
Step 4: Purchase Chicks
- Buy from reputed hatcheries.
- Age: 1-day-old chicks for full control.
Step 5: Feeding & Watering Setup
- Automated or manual feeder lines.
- 1 nipple drinker per 10 birds.
Step 6: Lighting System
- 16 hours of light/day for peak egg production.
Step 7: Record-Keeping
- Daily eggs, feed, vaccinations, and mortality tracking.
Pro Tip: Start small (e.g. 500 birds), then scale gradually.
Cost of Egg Poultry Farming (Per 1000 Birds)
| Component | Estimated Cost (₹) |
|---|---|
| Chicks (₹30 each) | 30,000 |
| Shed & Equipment | 1,50,000 |
| Feed (6 months) | 2,70,000 |
| Vaccination & Medicine | 10,000 |
| Labor | 50,000 |
| Electricity & Overhead | 20,000 |
| Total Setup Cost | ₹5,30,000 |
Note: This is a rough estimate; costs vary by location and scale.
Expected Income & Profit Margin
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Eggs/Bird/Year | 280–300 |
| Total Eggs (1000 birds) | 2,80,000–3,00,000 |
| Selling Price (avg) | ₹5.00/egg |
| Gross Income | ₹14–15 Lakhs/year |
| Annual Profit Margin | ₹4–5 Lakhs |
Tip: Profit can rise with direct sales to retail shops or online apps.
Feed Management for Layer Birds
- Starter Feed (0–6 weeks): 20–22% protein
- Grower Feed (7–18 weeks): 16–18% protein
- Layer Feed (19+ weeks): 16% protein + calcium
| Feed Type | Daily Intake/Bird (g) | Cost/kg (₹) |
|---|---|---|
| Layer Feed | 110–120 | ₹25–30 |
Note: Proper feed ensures more eggs and healthy birds.
Vaccination Schedule for Layers
| Age (Days) | Vaccine | Disease Prevented |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Marek’s | Marek’s disease |
| Day 7 | Lasota | Newcastle disease |
| Day 14 | IBD | Gumboro |
| Day 28 | Lasota (Booster) | Newcastle |
| 6 Weeks | Fowl Pox | Pox |
Tip: Keep records of all vaccinations for health & audits.
Licenses & Permissions Required
- Farm Registration (Local Municipality)
- Pollution NOC (if commercial scale)
- Animal Husbandry Department license
- GST Registration (for large-scale sales)
Expert Advice: Consult your state’s animal husbandry office for detailed compliance.
Marketing & Sales Strategy
- Sell directly to:
- Retailers
- Hotels & restaurants
- Egg wholesalers
- Local Kirana stores
- Online platforms: BigBasket, Blinkit, etc.
- Tie-ups with schools, hospitals, and canteens.
Strategy Tip: Brand your eggs (e.g. organic, omega-rich) for better prices.
Challenges in Egg Poultry Farming
- Diseases like bird flu or Ranikhet.
- Feed price fluctuation.
- Market price variation.
- Labour shortage.
- Seasonal demand dips.
Note: Insurance & proper planning help minimise risks.
Government Subsidies & Loans
| Scheme | Benefit |
|---|---|
| NABARD Poultry Venture Fund | 25–33% subsidy on capital cost |
| PM Formalisation of Food Scheme | Financial assistance to FPOs |
| Agri Infrastructure Fund | Low-interest loans for shed, feed |
| State Animal Husbandry Schemes | Breed support, free vaccinations |
Tip: Contact your District Livestock Office for applying.
Conclusion
Egg poultry farming in India is a high-potential agribusiness with growing demand, consistent income, and government support. With proper planning, breed selection, feeding, and disease management, farmers can build a sustainable and scalable business. Whether you’re a beginner or expanding your farm, use this guide to start smart and grow profitably.
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FAQs on Egg Poultry Farming
👉 Around 280–300 eggs under proper management.
👉 White Leghorn, BV 300, and ISA Brown are top-performing breeds.
👉 Around 18 to 20 weeks.
👉 Yes, average profits range from ₹4–5 lakhs/year for 1000 birds.
👉 Approx. 4000–5000 sq ft, including shed and free space.
👉 ₹2.5–₹3 per bird depending on feed prices.
👉 Cage system gives better egg yield and easier management.
👉 Not for backyard scale, but advisable to register if commercial.
👉 Use local markets, tie-ups with shops, or online platforms.
👉 Yes, you can use apps like “mKisan”, “AgriApp”, or “Krishi Network”.
