ICAR-IISWC, Research Centre, Udhagamandalam, organized an awareness cum distribution programme of improved back yard poultry rearing as a subsidiary livelihood option under SCSP at three villages on 14-12-2023. During the programme information on backyard poultry rearing methods, nutritional value, preparation of low cost poultry feeds and economic benefits were briefed to the SC women and SHG beneficiaries of the 3 SCSP adopted villagers of Gundlupet taluk, Chamarajanagar district, Karnataka. During the programme 3000 nos. of five weeks old improved breed of chicks (Giriraja) was distributed to 190 SC farmers of 3 villages, Bendarawadi, Passaihnapura and Hangaladahosahalli. The programme was coordinated by Dr. S. M. Vanitha and Dr. H.C. Hombegowda, Senior scientists. Dr. S. M. Vanitha, welcomed all the beneficiaries and villagers and briefed the economic benefits of rearing the backyard poultry and women’s role in subsidiary income generation for improving livelihood. The taluk veterinary department Head Dr. Krishna Kumar briefed about converting low value waste foods into high value poultry meat and eggs through rearing the improved breeds of chicks. Dr. Kumar also provided the information on precautions to be taken for rearing back yard poultry, regular vaccinations, their feeds and nutritional value. Dr. Hombegowda explained the need and increasing demand for back yard poultry in the recent years. Mr. K. Sangili (Technical assistant) and Ms. Manisha (Project assistant) were present and helped during the programme.