Where Furry Companions Meet Business Opportunities
Suhail Khan
BARAMULLA, Mar 4: The only rabbit breeding farm in north Kashmir, located in the Wussan Pattan area of the Baramulla district, is providing ample opportunities to the unemployed youth to start their own business units. Established in 1979, this farm not only offers pet rabbits but also various breeds of rabbits suitable for meat purposes.
The Rabbit Breeding Farm in Wussan Pattan has been a significant contributor to the local economy, and its success has attracted attention from neighboring areas. With its vast array of rabbit breeds, it has become a hub for those seeking pet rabbits and a source of high-quality meat for the region’s consumers.
Speaking with Kashmir Despatch, Dr. Irfan, a farm manager, said that six different genus of rabbits are available here, including Angora, Grey Giant, Black Brown, Californian, Soviet Chinchilla, and New Zealand White.
He said the farm’s costliest breed is the “Angora,” known for its wool. Russian Chinchilla and German Angora are the most popular breeds for pet lovers.
Dr. Irfan said that for pets, the response from the people across Kashmir is beyond words. It has also become a popular destination for pet lovers, with rearing rabbits as pets gaining popularity across Kashmir, adding that the department is planning to add some fancy breeds to the farm once it gets approval from the directorate.
Dr. Irfan said that this farm has been successful in providing employment opportunities to the unemployed youth of the region, who can now earn a handsome income by setting up their own businesses at home.
Pertinently, Rabbit meat is considered lean and white with high nutritional value, making it a favorite among doctors and researchers, who suggest it to people with cardiac problems.
A health expert in a chat with Kashmir Despatch said that rabbit meat is very safe to eat when cooked thoroughly in the same way that you might cook other animal meats. He said it’s good for your heart and won’t contribute to high cholesterol or heart disease.
The health expert said that rabbit meat is a great source of protein also.
Suhail Khan is a filmmaker, content writer, and freelance journalist.
