The Kadaknath Chicken, known as Kali Masi or “Black Jewel,” is not just a bird—it’s a cultural icon, a medicinal treasure, and a lifeline for tribal farmers in India.
With its jet-black meat, revered in Ayurveda and tribal traditions, this breed embodies India’s rich agricultural heritage.
In this deep dive, we explore the Kadaknath Chicken through an Indian lens—its history, health benefits, farming practices, and why it’s a symbol of resilience for rural India.
The Kadaknath Chicken: An Indigenous Marvel of India
What Makes Kadaknath Unique?
Originating in the tribal heartlands of Jhabua, Madhya Pradesh, the Kadaknath Chicken is India’s only poultry breed with a Geographical Indication (GI) tag (awarded in 2018). Its distinct features include:
- Black Everything: Meat, bones, organs, and even blood are dark due to melanin.
- Nutritional Powerhouse: 25% protein, 0.6–1.2% iron, and 184 mg/100g cholesterol (lower than broilers).
- Cultural Symbol: Central to Bhil and Bhilala tribal festivals like Akhil Bhartiya Bhagoria Haat and Diwali.
Historical & Cultural Significance in India
A Tribal Legacy
For centuries, the Kadaknath has been reared by tribal communities in western Madhya Pradesh. It’s more than poultry—it’s a part of their identity:
- Rituals & Medicine: Used in dawai-rasam (healing rituals) for postpartum recovery, asthma, and weakness.
- Festivals: Sacrificed during Hareli (monsoon festival) to appease deities for good harvests.
- Folklore: Locals believe its black color wards off evil spirits.
GI Tag: Protecting India’s Heritage
The GI tag ensures only chickens reared in Jhabua, Dhar, Alirajpur, and Ratlam districts can be branded as Kadaknath. This protects against commercial exploitation and empowers tribal farmers.
Did You Know?
Kadaknath is among 370+ GI-tagged Indian products, like Darjeeling Tea and Banarasi Silk.
Medicinal Benefits: Why Ayurveda Swears By Kadaknath
Ancient Wisdom Meets Modern Science
Ayurvedic texts like Charaka Samhita highlight Kadaknath’s Rasayana (rejuvenating) properties. Modern studies confirm:
- Anemia Relief: High iron content boosts hemoglobin.
- Immunity Booster: Carnosine antioxidants combat free radicals.
- Joint Health: Low fat and collagen-rich meat aids arthritis patients.
Tribal Remedies
- Postpartum Soup: Boiled Kadaknath meat with ginger and garlic speeds recovery.
- Asthma Care: Bone broth mixed with tulsi and honey eases breathing.
Economic Impact: Empowering Rural India
A Livelihood for Tribal Farmers
Over 50,000 families in Madhya Pradesh depend on Kadaknath farming. Government initiatives like:
- Subsidies: 50% subsidy on chicks via MP Poultry Mission.
- Training: KVKs (Krishi Vigyan Kendras) teach free-range farming.
- Market Access: E-platforms like Meri Sadhan connect farmers to urban buyers.
Market Demand & Pricing
- Domestic: Sells for ₹800–₹1,500/kg in cities like Mumbai and Delhi.
- Exports: Limited to UAE and Nepal due to high demand in Indian diaspora.
- Restaurants: Featured in gourmet dishes at ITC Hotels and “Tribal Platter” eateries.
How to Farm Kadaknath Chickens: An Indian Farmer’s Guide
1. Sourcing Chicks
- Government Sources: MP State Poultry Development Centre (₹30–₹50/chick with subsidy).
- Private Breeders: Ensure GI certification (e.g., Jhabua Poultry Cooperative).
2. Traditional Free-Range Farming
- Housing: Low-cost bamboo coops with 2–3 sq ft/bird.
- Feed:
- 60% Local Grains: Maize, jowar, bajra.
- 20% Protein: Termites, soybean, neem leaves.
- 20% Greens: Spinach, alfalfa.
- Water: Mix amla juice for summer hydration.
3. Health Management
- Vaccination: Follow ND (Ranikhet) and IBD (Gumboro) schedules.
- Ayurvedic Practices: Neem oil for parasites, turmeric paste for wounds.
4. Sustainable Practices
- Vermicompost: Use poultry waste to fertilize crops.
- Predator Control: Train indigenous dogs like Banjara Hounds.
Kadaknath vs. Broiler Chickens: An Indian Perspective
| Factor | Kadaknath | Broiler |
|---|---|---|
| Growth Time | 6–8 months | 6 weeks |
| Feed Cost | ₹50–₹70/kg (local grains) | ₹90–₹110/kg (commercial) |
| Market Price | ₹800–₹1,500/kg | ₹150–₹200/kg |
| Health Impact | Medicinal, low cholesterol | High fat, antibiotic residues |
Why Farmers Choose Kadaknath:
- Profit Margin: 300% higher than broilers.
- Low Input Cost: Thrives on kitchen scraps and free-range foraging.
Challenges in Kadaknath Farming
1. Predators
- Common Threats: Jungle cats, eagles, and snakes.
- Solution: Use neem-coated fencing and solar-powered lights.
2. Climate Sensitivity
- Heat Stress: Provide shaded mud baths and buttermilk hydration.
- Monsoon Care: Elevate coops to prevent flooding.
3. Market Access
- Middlemen Exploitation: Tribal farmers often get 50% less than market rates.
- Fix: Direct sales via cooperatives or apps like DeHaat.
FAQs: Kadaknath Chicken in the Indian Context
Q: Where can I buy Kadaknath meat in India?
A: Reliance Fresh, BigBasket, or tribal cooperatives like Adivasi Mahila Kisan Producer Company.
Q: Is Kadaknath farming profitable in Uttar Pradesh/Kerala?
A: Yes, but ensure chicks are GI-certified. Climate adaptation is key.
Q: What government schemes support Kadaknath farmers?
A: MP Poultry Mission, NABARD’s Rural Innovation Fund, and Startup India grants.
Q: Can I raise Kadaknath in urban backyards?
A: Possible with proper permits. They’re quieter than broilers but need space.
Q: Why is Kadaknath meat expensive?
A: Slow growth, high nutrition, and GI-tagged scarcity justify the cost.
Q: Are there Kadaknath dishes in Indian cuisine?
A: Try Kadaknath Curry (Madhya Pradesh), Kali Masi Biryani (Hyderabad), or Kadaknath Soup (Ayurvedic clinics).
Support India’s Black Gold
The Kadaknath Chicken isn’t just poultry—it’s a legacy. By choosing Kadaknath, you empower tribal farmers, preserve biodiversity, and embrace Ayurvedic wellness.
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जय हिन्द, जय कड़कनाथ!