Sri Vijaya Puram, Sept. 23: Under the Duck Development Plan this year, the Department of Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services has initiated large scale measures to meet the increasing demand for ducklings across the Islands. For developing the duck farming sector, the Department proposed 40000 duck hatching eggs, 20000 of Khaki Campbell & 20000 of Vigova duck breeds from Central Poultry Development Organization (CPDO), Southern Region, Hessarghatta, Bengaluru.
Out of this consignment till date, 13000 duck hatching eggs have been received from CPDO, Hessarghatta at Central Hatchery, Dollygunj. These hatchable eggs received from Hessarghatta are sent to various departmental hatcheries across the Islands for further hatching and distribution of ducklings. From Central Hatchery, LFC, Dollygunj around 7000 ducklings have been produced from and distributed to the farmers, creating a significant boost in duck farming sector and the programme is gaining momentum.
On dated 19th September, 2025, a total of 1514 ducklings Khaki Campbell (Egg type) & Vigova (Meat Type) have been distributed from Central Hatchery, LFC, Dollygunj to 91 beneficiaries from various places of South Andaman viz Manglutan, Wimberlygunj, Rangachang & Port Mout.
Further, the remaining consignments of hatching eggs will be received in regular phases, ensuring continuity of the programme. This large scale distribution helps not only household level nutritional security but also contributes to the diversification of income sources for rural families. Farmers across several regions of the Islands have welcomed the initiative, as it provides them with quality stock for rearing and enhances the scope for sustainable poultry-based livelihoods.
