Rabbit Farming in India: Emerging Opportunities, Challenges and Future Prospects

In India, rabbit farming is gaining popularity as a small-scale livestock business that may provide meat, superior animal fiber, and additional agricultural revenue. Although rabbits mature early and procreate quickly, these benefits may not always translate into a viable business. In comparison to traditional livestock, the 20th Livestock Census of 2019 found that there were about 5.5 lakh rabbits in India. Opportunities in value-added products, Angora wool, organized meat marketing, and farmer collectives have been identified by recent study. However, expansion remains limited by poor market connections, a lack of high-quality breeding stock, expensive feed, and heat stress. This article explores potential growth areas for rabbit farming, the need for responsible management, and the need to prioritize climate appropriateness and guarantied buyers over farm expansion.