Small-scale livestock farmers in Sri Lanka face various challenges, including limited access to resources, technical knowledge, and markets. The government and non-governmental organizations often implement programs to support these farmers through training, improved breeding practices, and market linkages.
In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of sustainable and environmentally friendly practices in small-scale livestock production. Efforts are being made to promote better animal husbandry practices, reduce environmental impact, and enhance overall productivity.
Overall, small-scale livestock production in Sri Lanka plays a crucial role in the livelihoods of many rural communities, contributing to food security, income generation, and the overall development of the agricultural sector. Continued support and investment in this sector are essential for the well-being of small-scale farmers and the sustainable growth of the livestock industry in Sri Lanka.
Voluntary guidance tool for the sustainable enhancement of small-scale livestock productivity – Need, scope, nature, and development process
E consultation
Developing a guidance tool is a timely requirement to facilitate the promotion of small-scale livestock productivity. I fully agree with an immense importance of this activity when I consider the current status of small-scale livestock productivity in Sri Lanka.
Small-scale livestock production in Sri Lanka plays a vital role in the country's agricultural landscape, providing a source of livelihood for many rural communities and contributing to the nation's food security. Livestock farming in Sri Lanka typically includes cattle, goats, pigs and poultry. However, there is no clear definitions on how we categorize farms as small-scale and large-scale.
Cattle farming is prevalent, with farmers raising indigenous breeds or their crosses for milk and meat production. These animals are often well-adapted to local conditions and contribute to the dairy industry. Goats are also commonly raised for meat, and their ability to thrive in diverse environments makes them suitable for small-scale farming.
Pig farming is another aspect of small-scale livestock production in Sri Lanka, with farmers rearing pigs for meat consumption. Pigs are often kept in small numbers, and their adaptability to different feed sources makes them suitable for smallholder operations.
Poultry farming, particularly chicken rearing, is a popular and accessible enterprise for small-scale farmers. Chickens are raised for both meat and egg production, providing a valuable source of protein and income. Additionally, backyard poultry farming allows farmers to manage their flocks with relatively low input costs.
Based on recent research into various poultry production systems in Sri Lanka, I have gained insights into the status of small-scale poultry operations. It has become evident that family poultry plays a unique role within communities, extending beyond merely meeting protein and micronutrient needs in resource-poor settings. The significance of family poultry is deeply rooted in socio-cultural aspects.
One notable observation is the limited knowledge, attitudes, and practices among small-scale poultry farmers regarding poultry diseases, vaccination, and bio-security measures. It is concerning that many farmers have not recognized disease outbreaks as a prevalent issue. This less prevalence of disease occurrence might be attributed to the inherent disease resistance demonstrated by indigenous chicken breeds, as indicated by some researchers. However, this positive aspect has been viewed negatively by the commercial poultry industry, which perceives small-scale poultry operations as potential disease reservoirs.
Before the recent economic crisis, Sri Lanka enjoyed a demand-sufficient status in both egg and chicken meat production, with large private sector companies dominating the market. Unfortunately, small-scale poultry operations have been largely overlooked, given their relatively low contribution to national production. Despite this, there is a substantial demand for eggs and meat from village chickens produced by small-scale farmers. Consumers are willing to pay a premium, often double the price of broiler meat, demonstrating the market potential for these products.
It is essential to recognize the untapped potential of family poultry in Sri Lanka as well as in other low and middle income (LMIC) countries and address the existing gaps in knowledge and practices among small-scale farmers. Developing a guidance tool is a timely requirement to facilitate the promotion of small-scale livestock productivity. This tool can serve as a valuable resource to enhance the productivity and sustainability of small-scale poultry operations, meeting both consumer demands and contributing to the overall economic development of the poultry sector in Sri Lanka.
Ruwani Kalupahana (PhD)
Department of Veterinary Public Health and Pharmacology
Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science
University of Peradeniya
Sri Lanka
Prof. Ruwani Kalupahana