CHALLENGES AND PROSPECTS OF LAYER FARMING IN PUNAKHA AND TSIRANG DISTRICTS

Abstract

This study examines the challenges and prospects of layer farming in Tsirang and Punakha districts of Bhutan. Layer farming, primarily focused on egg production, plays a crucial role in enhancing food security, generating income, and promoting economic development in rural communities. The research employs a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative analysis of survey data with qualitative insights from interviews with layer farmers. Findings reveal several challenges faced by farmers, including market constraints, feed availability issues, labor shortages, and health-related concerns such as high mortality rates. Despite these challenges, the study identifies promising prospects for the sector, including growing demand for eggs, supportive government policies, access to technology and resources, and opportunities for market diversification and export. Recommendations are provided to address the challenges and leverage the opportunities, emphasizing the importance of market development, capacity building, input accessibility, research and innovation, infrastructure improvement, policy support, and extension services. By implementing these recommendations in collaboration with stakeholders, layer farming in Tsirang and Punakha can realize its full potential, contributing to sustainable growth and development of the poultry sector and rural livelihoods in Bhutan.