In a significant development for India’s poultry industry, the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) has granted approval to India’s self-declaration of freedom from Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) within specific poultry compartments. This accomplishment underlines India’s commitment to upholding stringent animal health and biosecurity standards.
Zoning and Compartmentalization
Zoning and compartmentalization are essential tools used to establish and maintain groups of animals with specific health statuses, primarily for international trade and disease prevention. Compartmentalization involves defining a sub-population of animals with a specified health status within the national territory. This status relies on rigorous management and husbandry practices that adhere to the standards outlined in the WOAH Terrestrial Code.
Avian Influenza in India
Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), commonly known as Bird Flu, was first detected in India in 2006. Since then, the country has faced annual outbreaks of HPAI in various regions, resulting in significant economic losses. The disease has affected 24 states and union territories, leading to the culling of over 9 million birds.
India’s Response to HPAI
India has followed a “detect and cull” policy to control HPAI, involving the humane destruction of infected and exposed animals, eggs, feed, litter, and other contaminated materials. Additional measures such as movement restrictions, disinfection, clean-up, and a Post-Operative Surveillance Plan (POSP) have been implemented. Notably, India does not permit vaccination against HPAI.
Compartmentalization: A Vital Measure
Despite these challenges, India has proactively adopted poultry compartmentalization to mitigate the risks associated with HPAI. Compartmentalization enhances animal health, reduces the risk of disease outbreaks, and facilitates poultry and poultry product trade.
Approval of Self-Declaration by WOAH
The Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying, Government of India, submitted a self-declaration of freedom from High Pathogenicity Avian Influenza in 26 poultry compartments to the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH). On October 13, 2023, WOAH approved this self-declaration. These poultry compartments are located in Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh.
Implications for India’s Poultry Industry
India, being the third-largest producer of eggs and the fifth-largest producer of poultry meat globally, stands to gain significantly from this recognition. The approval by WOAH signals India’s adherence to international biosecurity standards, boosting the export potential of Indian poultry and related products, including meat and eggs.
In the 2022-23 fiscal year, India exported poultry products to 64 countries, generating $134 million in revenue. The approval of this self-declaration is expected to create new opportunities for Indian poultry in the global market, contributing to the country’s economic growth.