Ashok Kumar at his poultry farm in Nabekavu, Labasa, on February 15, 2018. Photo: Wati Talebula
Kumar’s poultry farm supplies major supermarkets in Labasa.
Since receiving the Northern Development Programme (NDP) grant in 2012, Ashok Kumar has been supplying eggs to major supermarkets in Labasa.
The 44-year-old, of Nabekavu, in Labasa, received $10,000 grant from NDP and $5708.28 from a bank, which he took as loan to start his poultry farm.
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“From the grant and the loan I received I was able to purchase 270 chicks, three cages and feeds till they started laying eggs. I have expanded since I started,” the father of two said.
“In 2014, I was able to save enough to buy a car to help me in delivering. The profit I get from my business I reinvested in the business.”
Despite the fact he was making profit, Mr Kumar did not deny that he faced challenges daily.
“The price of the eggs fluctuates and sometimes it is really low. And the price for the feed has also increased. Sometimes I can’t supply enough eggs to customers,” Mr Kumar said.
“I supply eggs to five Labasa Market customers, few supermarkets, restaurants and hospital canteen. My wife is the main reason I have reached this far.”
He urges those who received the grant to use it in the right way.
Mr Kumar was also presented the ‘Poultry Farmer of the Year’ award during the Northern Agriculture Show last year.
Edited by Naisa Koroi
Feedback: wati.talebula@fijisun.com.fj
