In a significant boost to the local agricultural sector, goat farming is quickly establishing itself as a high-return business, fueled by increasing demand for meat, milk, and valuable byproducts such as manure. The business model is drawing attention from both aspiring entrepreneurs and seasoned farmers alike.
Baldev Singh Sandhu, a resident of Manuke Sandhu village, recently received the prestigious Chief Minister’s Award for excellence in goat farming. The accolade was presented during the Pashu Palan Mela organized by Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (GADVASU), marking a milestone in his career and the broader recognition of goat farming as a viable enterprise.
After completing his education, Sandhu initially ventured into the dairy industry. However, driven by ambitions to diversify and expand his business portfolio, he began exploring goat farming. “I did a lot of research before venturing into goat farming. It took me six months during which I visited various goat farms in nearby districts and the neighbouring state of Haryana. I also received training from GADVASU before finally deciding to start goat rearing,” Sandhu explained.
Sandhu’s methodical approach paid off handsomely. Starting in 2022 with a modest herd of 65 beetle goats, his operation has rapidly expanded to include 270 goats. Today, his farm functions not only as a breeding facility but also as the home of the ‘Beetle Breeders Club’, a collective initiative aimed at sharing expertise and promoting best practices within the community.
Emphasizing the economic benefits of goat farming, Sandhu noted, “It is quite a lucrative business as the cost of inputs is significantly less than the output or returns.” His success story reflects the broader trend of rural enterprises leveraging low-cost inputs to generate high yields, providing a template for other farmers interested in diversifying their income streams.
The transformation of Sandhu’s farm has sparked renewed interest in goat rearing across the region. With the dual benefits of lower startup costs and significant market demand, experts believe that the sector holds enormous promise for boosting rural economies. The story of Baldev Singh Sandhu serves as a compelling example of how dedicated research, proper training, and innovative approaches can pave the way for profitable and sustainable agricultural practices.
As the agricultural community continues to explore and adopt diverse farming practices, the rise of goat farming stands out as a beacon of entrepreneurial success. With initiatives like the Beetle Breeders Club gaining momentum, there is growing optimism that goat rearing will play an increasingly important role in meeting market demands and improving the livelihoods of rural farmers.
