Vet varsity hosts talks with goat breeders on business prospects

The Directorate of Extension Education at Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University organised a brainstorming session for goat breeders, entrepreneurs and industry professionals to explore entrepreneurial opportunities for goat farmers in Punjab.

Addressing the gathering, Dr JPS Gill, vice-chancellor, highlighted that goats are increasingly recognised worldwide as animals of the future, providing food security for the growing human population. He encouraged goat farmers to focus on value addition of their produce through farmer collectives to increase profitability.

Dr Ravinder Singh Grewal, Director of Extension Education, noted that the session aimed to engage unemployed youth in the livestock sector through profitable goat farming businesses. Dr Parminder Singh, Additional Director of Extension Education, emphasised the importance of record-keeping as the foundation of a successful breeding unit. Dr Mandeep Singla presented on the current state and future prospects of goat farming in Punjab.

Discussions focused on developing profitable business models for goat production, especially with the involvement of young entrepreneurs. Progressive farmers shared valuable insights on various aspects of the industry.

Balwinder Singh Maan stressed the importance of marketing goats to other states for festive occasions. Baldev Singh Sandhu suggested establishing breeding units for milk production and marketing. Bhupinder Singh Brar emphasised the need for large-scale farms to supply goats for both milk and meat. Sandeep Singh and S Rajpreet Singh supported the formation of farmer collectives for better marketing.

Sh Sunny Kang advocated for the marketing of goats and related inputs across the entire value chain. Kala Gosal proposed value addition to milk to improve its shelf life and marketing through cooperatives. Paramjit Kaur Kattu recommended actively marketing khoya and paneer to urban destinations across the state. The vice-chancellor assured the gathering that the university would take all necessary steps to support farmers.