Funds Fail to Deliver Intended Benefits
A government initiative aimed at reducing poverty in tribal regions through backyard poultry farming has reportedly failed to achieve its objectives. A significant portion of the funds allocated for the scheme has gone unutilized or yielded poor outcomes, with beneficiaries neither able to sustain poultry units nor effectively use financial assistance meant for infrastructure development.
CAG Audit Reveals Ground-Level Failures
The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG), in its recent audit report, highlighted serious irregularities in the implementation of the scheme between 2019 and 2024. During this period, around ₹12.76 crore was spent by 15 Micro Project Agencies (MPAs) to support nearly 34,000 beneficiaries. The assistance included supply of chicks, layer birds, and iron cages.
However, the audit found that out of 124 beneficiaries surveyed, 95 reported that the chicks provided to them did not survive. In some cases, beneficiaries stated that not even 5 out of 20 chicks survived, indicating poor quality or lack of proper care and support systems.
Lack of Training and Monitoring
The report also pointed out the absence of proper training and documentation. There were no records to confirm that beneficiaries received guidance on poultry care, feeding, breeding, or disease management from veterinary officials. This lack of capacity building further contributed to the failure of the initiative.
Infrastructure Created but Left Unused
In another concerning finding, 11 self-help groups were given nearly ₹24 lakh to construct poultry sheds with a capacity of 1,000 birds each, along with an additional ₹5.18 lakh to purchase poultry. However, none of these groups actually procured birds. In several locations, the constructed sheds remained unused for over a year, reflecting poor planning and execution.
Scheme Impact Falls Short of Goals
The scheme was designed to economically empower primitive tribal groups by providing sustainable livelihood opportunities. However, due to weak monitoring and lack of follow-up, it has largely failed to deliver results. Authorities had to suspend further supply of chicks to prevent additional financial losses.
Call for Accountability and Reform
The findings underline the urgent need for better implementation, monitoring, and accountability mechanisms. Experts suggest that without proper training, supervision, and evaluation, such welfare schemes risk becoming ineffective, defeating their core purpose of uplifting vulnerable communities.