CUMILLA – A young entrepreneur in Cumilla's Homna upazila has created a local sensation by establishing a thriving peacock farm, turning a personal hobby into a successful business. Md. Shah Ali, a resident of Babarkandi village, began his journey in 2019 by purchasing a single pair of peacocks out of fascination for their majestic dance.
Today, his farm is home to over 100 peacocks, with a collective market value of approximately 3.1 million Taka. Shah Ali reports annual sales of around 2 million Taka from the birds, their eggs, and feathers. Alongside the peacock farm, he continues his family's traditional business—a dairy farm with eight high-breed cows that produce 60 litres of milk daily.
A visit to his farm reveals a vibrant scene of peacocks roaming freely. Shah Ali has become a well-known figure in the area, synonymous with peacock farming.
"Shah Ali is a very hardworking young man," said Dalim Molla, a local resident. "He manages his father's dairy farm and has also made a name for himself with his peacock farm. People come from far and wide to see and buy the peacocks. It's a matter of pride for our area that a young entrepreneur has achieved such success."
Speaking about his venture, Shah Ali said, "After my father passed away, I started raising peacocks alongside our dairy farm. From an initial seven birds, I've bred them to over 100. They are mostly bought by enthusiasts as ornamental birds."
He detailed the economics of his business: "Depending on age, a pair of peacocks sells for anywhere between 30,000 to 150,000 Taka. Feathers sell for 20 to 50 Taka each, and I sell a 'hali' (four) of eggs for 10,000 Taka." He added, "My total investment has been 1.2 million Taka, and I've already sold 2 million Taka worth of birds. The current stock is valued at over 3 million Taka."
For those interested in starting a similar farm, Shah Ali offers practical advice. "Raising peacocks is quite easy. Their diet is similar to that of chickens, and the daily feeding cost is only about 7-8 Taka per bird, including vitamins. However, I advise against starting a large farm from the beginning. Start with one or two pairs. Peacocks are a luxury item and don't sell instantly, so it's crucial to have another source of income."
Official authorities are supportive of his initiative. Dr. Md. Shafiqul Alam, Homna Upazila Livestock Officer, stated, "Shah Ali's farm is the only one of its kind in our upazila. We regularly inspect his farm and provide all necessary support."
Regarding the legalities, Md. Mazharul Islam, the Chandina Range Officer of the Forest Department, clarified, "Licenses are required for native species like crocodiles or deer. Since the peacock is a foreign species, a specific license isn't needed, but the Forest Department must be informed before establishing a farm." Shah Ali confirmed that he has obtained the necessary permissions from the Forest Department's office in Mohakhali, Dhaka.
