Introduction to Country Chicken Farming

Country Chicken Farming Training
Country Chicken Farming

Country chicken farming, also known as free-range poultry farming or desi chicken farming, is an age-old practice that has become popular again in India. 

Modern consumers are turning to country chicken (also known as Desi or Nati Chicken) due to its natural, chemical-free quality. For rural entrepreneurs, this growing demand opens the door to higher profits and a rewarding business, all while promoting sustainable farming practices.

Unlike commercial broilers, country chickens are hardy and adaptable, thriving in natural environments. Farmers, both small-scale and commercial, are turning towards this model because of its low input costs, better taste, and higher market demand.

If you’re planning to venture into country chicken farming, you are on the right path. Rustic Rooster Tales blog is your one-stop resource to help you start small, scale up, and sustain a profitable poultry business.

Note: Country Chicken is also called as Native Chicken, Desi Chicken, Nati Chicken. 

What is Country Chicken Farming?

Country chicken Disease Resistant
Country Chickens are Disease Resistant

Country chicken farming involves rearing indigenous or local breeds of chicken in a natural, free-range system. The birds are allowed to roam outdoors, forage for insects, worms, and green fodder, which makes their meat and eggs more nutritious.

This system is especially suitable for:

  • Small farmers and backyard growers who want extra income.
  • Large-scale farmers are looking for sustainable and organic alternatives to commercial poultry.
  • Consumers who prefer healthy, chemical-free food.

Benefits of Country Chicken Farming

  1. Low Investment: Shed construction and feed costs are far lower when compared with the commercial broiler farms.
  2. Hardy Breeds: Country chickens are disease-resistant and adapt well to local climates.
  3. High Market Demand: Desi chicken meat and eggs fetch 2–3 times higher price compared to broilers.
  4. Sustainable Farming: Birds rely partly on scavenging, reducing dependency on commercial feed.
  5. Better Taste & Nutrition: Meat is firmer and eggs are richer in nutrients, attracting health-conscious buyers.

Small-Scale Vs Large-Scale Country Chicken Farming

  • Small Scale (20–100 birds): Perfect for beginners, requires minimal space, can be integrated into a backyard or farm.
  • Large Scale (500+ birds): Requires proper shed design, systematic feeding, and disease management — but profitability is higher.

Key Requirements to Get Started

  • Breeds: Choose hardy local breeds such as Aseel, Kadaknath, Gramapriya, or other native desi varieties. 
  • Housing: A low-cost shed with good ventilation and protection from predators.
  • Feed: Combination of natural scavenging + homemade/local feed (grains, kitchen waste, azolla, greens).
  • Health: Follow a vaccination schedule and maintain basic farm hygiene.
  • Marketing: Explore local markets, direct sales, and niche buyers (organic food lovers).
Low cost country chicken shed
Low cost country chicken shed (Sample)

Why Country Chicken Farming is the Future

Consumers are increasingly opting for country chicken (Desi or Nati Chicken) as awareness about organic, chemical-free food continues to rise. This trend positions country chicken farming as a viable and profitable opportunity for rural entrepreneurs, while also contributing to sustainable farming systems and healthier communities.

👉 In the next chapter, we will discuss "Benefits of Desi Chicken Vs Broiler Chicken Farming." 

Location: India

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