The only broiler farm in Pema Gatshel is running into losses. Ngawang Tshering, the owner established the farm in August to minimise the import of chicken into the country. But today he is struggling to sell the chickens. A broiler farm raises chicken for its meat.
Ngawang Tshering from Borangmo village in Norbugang Gewog raised 1,500 chickens on his farm. Normally, the birds mature by day 45 and are sold off. But Ngawang had to keep his chickens past the 45 days as he hasn’t been able to find a proper market.
“I don’t have a meat shop. So, I couldn’t sell the products on time. If we can sell them in a bulk right after 45 days, I will not run into a loss. Even after 45 days, I have to feed them. The cost of the feed is high and that’s why I incurred the loss,” said Ngawang Tshering, a broiler farm owner in Norbugang Gewog.
Today, he has more than 100 chickens left on his farm. He managed to sell the rest to Monggar and Nganglam for around Nu 250 per kilogram.
He said most of the meat shops in Nganglam don’t want his products as the imported ones are cheaper.
Now he planning to reduce the number of birds he raises.
“Now it would be better if I procure 500 chicks at a time. Initially, I was unaware of such a loss and procured about 1,500 chicks. Now, I will raise only 500 chicks so that I don’t run into a loss,” said Ngawang Tshering.
He added that he is planning to open his meat outlet in Nganglam. Although upset, Ngawang says he will not give up and instead wants to explore new ways to make his business a success.
Thinley Dorji, Pema Gatshel
Edited by Tshering Zam
