Sri Vijaya Puram, May 5: In an inspiring example of rural entrepreneurship and sustainable farming, a progressive farmer from Dudhline in Shadipur Village has successfully transformed traditional goat rearing into a thriving and profitable enterprise, setting a benchmark for livestock farmers across the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
C. Elango, aged 40, has over 15 years of experience in goat farming and has steadily expanded his small-scale activity into a well-organized goatry unit. Supported by his wife Sumitra Kumari and his brother Pritesh Sharma, the family now manages a livestock strength of 96 goats, comprising 26 males and 70 females.
What began as a modest livelihood initiative has grown into a sustainable business model, driven by careful planning, scientific practices, and strong institutional support. A key factor in this success has been the consistent assistance from the Department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services, which has provided timely veterinary care, treatment, and access to essential medicines. This support has ensured better animal health, higher productivity, and reduced losses.
Adopting modern livestock management techniques, Elango has implemented scientific breeding practices to improve both quality and profitability. One such practice is the castration of male goats, which enhances meat quality and aligns with consumer preferences in the local market. With goat meat in high demand across the islands, this approach has significantly boosted returns.
In a strategic move to diversify income, the farmer has also ventured into goat milk production. Known for its nutritional and medicinal benefits, goat milk fetches around ₹150 per litre in the local market, providing a steady additional revenue stream alongside meat sales.
Through efficient farm management and sustained efforts, the enterprise has achieved an annual turnover ranging between ₹6 lakh and ₹7 lakh. Officials note that this success story highlights the vast potential of livestock farming as a viable and sustainable livelihood option in the island ecosystem.
Experts from the agriculture and veterinary sectors point out that Elango’s journey demonstrates the importance of combining traditional knowledge with modern scientific practices. It also underscores how access to institutional support can empower farmers to scale up operations and improve income levels.
The story further reflects the crucial role of family collaboration in rural enterprises. With active involvement from all members, the farm has been able to maintain consistency, manage resources effectively, and expand operations over time.
Authorities believe that such examples can motivate more farmers in the region to explore livestock-based livelihoods, particularly in areas where land resources may be limited but demand for animal products remains strong.
As the Andaman and Nicobar Islands continue to promote sustainable rural development, success stories like that of Elango serve as powerful reminders of the opportunities available in agriculture and allied sectors when innovation, dedication, and support systems come together.
