Srinagar, April 23 -- The poultry sector in Jammu and Kashmir stands at a decisive moment, one that will determine whether it remains a cautionary tale of decline or reclaims its place as a driver of rural enterprise. Once celebrated for meeting the bulk of local demand, it now struggles to contribute even a fraction, leaving the region vulnerable to imports and the volatility they bring. This reversal is not merely about production figures; it is about livelihoods, food security, and the credibility of systems meant to sustain local enterprise.

The earlier success of the sector was no accident. It was built on deliberate measures that created space for local producers to thrive. Farmers, traders, transporters, and veterinary networks fo...