Poultry Sector Breakthrough: UAF Develops High-Yield Chicken Breed

FAISALABAD: Scientists at the University of Agriculture Faisalabad (UAF) have achieved a significant advancement for the nation’s poultry industry by creating a novel chicken breed. This breed is capable of producing over 200 eggs each year, nearly tripling the output of typical native hens.

This groundbreaking innovation, supported by the Punjab Agricultural Research Board (PARB), represents a pivotal stride in diminishing reliance on imported poultry breeds while fostering sustainable rural livelihoods.

According to the UAF’s Institute of Animal Sciences, UniGold is designed for small-scale poultry farming and demonstrates strong performance in low to medium-input systems prevalent in central and southern Punjab. Its reduced feed intake contributes to its ability to withstand heat stress.

Two separate varieties—full-neck and naked-neck—have been developed to accommodate diverse rural environments. Both exhibit notable adaptability to regional climates and feeding practices.

The UniGold breed outstrips conventional indigenous chickens in terms of productivity. While local hens generally lay only 70–80 eggs annually, UniGold hens can generate between 179 and 212 eggs per year. The average egg weight is approximately 52 grammes, marking a 25% increase compared to indigenous breeds.

Data obtained from the Poultry Research Institute indicates that UniGold hens attain laying maturity at 25–26 weeks, boasting hen-day production rates as high as 83.2% at 32 weeks of age. Furthermore, the breed’s strong resistance to heat and minimal feed demands render it especially beneficial for regions at risk of climate change.

The creation of UniGold also tackles a persistent issue within Pakistan’s poultry sector.

Despite the sector’s substantial size, ranking second only to textiles, it heavily depends on imported parent stock for both layers and broilers. The introduction of UniGold presents a domestic alternative, safeguarding genetic resources while enhancing rural income and food security.

Rural poultry, which accounts for 36% of Pakistan’s total egg output, is vital in empowering women and ensuring household nutrition.

The success of UniGold is projected to benefit landless farmers and rural households, aiding in poverty reduction and lessening dependence on imported breeds, such as Fayoumi and Rhode Island Red.

UAF intends to increase production through the planned establishment of an Indigenous Chicken Research and Development Centre, which will aid in distributing the UniGold breed to farmers throughout Pakistan.