The Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (KVASU) launched the first phase of the Startup Village Project at Pullazhi Kole, Olari, on Thursday.
The project aims at creating a sustainable development model in dairy, poultry and allied sectors.
Speaking after inaugurating the project, Therambil Ramakrishnan, MLA, pointed out that the start-up would facilitate a unique model of development so as to produce livestock, agriculture and allied products in an integrated manner.
“It is high time that we thought of achieving self-sufficiency in production of milk, egg, meat and other food products in the State. Our production system should consider environmental and climatic factors for developing a sustainable development model. The start-up will be a model for other States too,” he added.
The Directorate of Entrepreneurship of the university is implementing the project with the support from the Thrissur Urban Development Authority and the Pullazhi Kole Co-operative Society.
Thrissur Urban Development Authority chairman K. Radhakrishnan, during the presidential address, suggested that beneficiaries should concentrate on quality products. T.P. Sethumadhavan, Director of Entrepreneurship, KVASU, and Gopinathan, president, Pullazhi kole Cooperative Society, addressed the gathering.
In order to promote poultry production, beneficiaries will be provided with crossbred layers and poultry feed in the coming months.
Fodder cultivation
Entire bunds of the kole lands would be used for cultivating fodder and vegetables, Dr. Sethumadhavan told The Hindu .
Fodder cultivation will be promoted in a big way under the project. Based on the stakeholder demand and technology innovation and dissemination process, appropriate inputs will be distributed.
A scientific seminar on fodder cultivation and animal health were held as part of the function.

Source : The Hindu