Small scale duck production in India: present status, prospects, and challenges

SUMMARYThe objective of this review is to analyse the status, production systems, constraints, and prospects of small-scale duck farming in India. Between 2010 and 2019, India’s duck population increased from 25.5 to 33.5 million, contributing about 1.1% of national egg output and 2.4% of poultry meat production (BAHS, 2023). Duck farming remains concentrated in eastern and southern states, with growth in Assam and Tripura but a gradual decline in Kerala. Most ducks are raised under scavenging or semi-intensive systems that rely on wetlands, paddy fields, and household by-products. Indigenous breeds such as Pati, Maithili, and native ducks of Odisha and West Bengal are hardy and disease-tolerant but low-yielding compared to improved strains. Key constraints include poor access to breeding stock, seasonal feed scarcity, weak veterinary coverage, and unorganised marketing channels. Opportunities lie in integrating ducks into rice – fish systems, improving feed efficiency through locally available ingredients like Azolla, and establishing community-based breeding and health programs. Strengthening extension support, cooperative marketing, and targeted policy interventions can transform duck rearing from a subsistence activity into a profitable, climate-resilient enterprise for smallholders. The review concludes with specific pathways to enhance productivity, profitability and policy relevance of duck farming for rural livelihoods.