Photo : BSS

KHULNA, June 2, 2025 (BSS) - Duck farming has emerged as a promising source of income for unemployed youth and housewives in Fultala upazila of the district, bringing positive changes to the local economy. 

Yeasin Farazi, a farmer from Damodar village in Fultala upazila, has set an example of success through duck rearing.

He started with only 50 Khaki Campbell ducklings-a British breed of domestic ducks-and made an initial profit of around Taka 20,000. Encouraged by the outcome, he gradually expanded his farm, which now houses about 1,300 ducks. His current monthly income exceeds Taka one lakh.

Talking to BSS, Yeasin said Khaki Campbell ducks are known for their good body structure, high meat yield, and rapid growth.

"These ducks grow to 3 to 4 kilograms within 2 to 2.5 months and are sold at Taka 400 to 500 per kg in the local market," he said.

He added that the breed is less susceptible to diseases and well-suited to the country's climate.

Inspired by Yeasin's success, more than 10 Khaki Campbell duck farms have been established in different parts of the upazila. The growing trend is creating employment opportunities and encouraging entrepreneurship among rural youth.

Alongside men, women are also becoming increasingly involved in duck farming. The Pekin-or Beijing-duck breed, known for its rapid growth and high meat yield, is especially popular among women. Many rural housewives are raising these ducks using modern farming methods, often in cages or bamboo platforms.

Meghla Akter, a housewife from Damodar village, said she was inspired by Yeasin's success. "Now I rear Pekin ducks using scientific methods and earn a decent income," she said.

Sheuli Begum, a duck farmer from Jamira village, said she balances household chores while managing her duck farm. "I sell each Pekin duck at Taka 400 to 500 per kg. After selling 100 ducks, nearly half of the income remains as profit," she said.

"Now I can contribute to family expenses without depending solely on my husband," she added.

According to livestock experts, Pekin ducks can weigh up to 3 kilograms within 45 to 50 days if properly fed and cared for. This makes duck farming a highly profitable venture within a short period.

Officials from the local Livestock Department said duck rearing has emerged as a promising sector in the upazila. With proper training and government support, more people-especially women-can be brought under sustainable poultry farming initiatives.

Contacted, Dr Nurullah Md Ahsan, Director of the Divisional Livestock Services (DoLS), said the department has undertaken various initiatives to promote duck farming in rural areas as part of its poverty alleviation and self-reliance programmes.