IPEMA’s Role in Shaping the Poultry Sector
The poultry industry in India is one of the fastest-growing sectors within the agricultural economy, playing a crucial role in food security, employment, and economic growth. As the world’s third-largest producer of eggs and fourth-largest producer of broiler chicken, India’s poultry sector is integral to the agribusiness landscape. With a consistent growth rate of 7-8% over the past three decades, the sector’s remarkable evolution has been driven by technological advancements, private sector investments, and shifting consumer preferences.
Current Status of the Poultry Sector
India is home to around 25,000 layer chicken farmers and approximately one million broiler farmers. Contributing nearly ₹1.35 lakh crore to the GDP, the sector produces about five million metric tonnes of broiler meat and 118 billion eggs annually. With a per capita consumption of 80 eggs per year and 4–5 kg of poultry meat, India’s poultry industry is a significant contributor to the country’s food supply. Additionally, the industry provides direct and indirect employment to over six million people, underscoring its vital role in the national economy.
Factors Driving Growth
Several key factors are fueling the poultry sector’s growth:
• Urbanization and Changing Diets: There is a noticeable shift in urban consumers towards protein-rich diets, which is driving the demand for poultry products.
• Technological Advancements: Scientific farming practices, improved breeds, and automation have significantly enhanced production efficiency.
• Government Support: Programs such as the National Livestock Mission (NLM) and various financial incentives have provided substantial support to the industry.
• Growing Investments: Large-scale investments in integrated farming, feed production, and cold storage have accelerated the growth of the poultry sector.
• Rise of Contract Farming: Contract farming offers small farmers the necessary resources, ensuring stable incomes and reducing risks.
Challenges Hindering Growth
Despite its progress, the poultry industry faces several challenges:
1. Rising Feed Costs: Feed accounts for up to 70% of production costs. Government interventions are needed to stabilize feed prices by boosting domestic production and easing imports.
2. Policy and Licensing Hurdles: The sector lacks official industry status, which limits access to subsidies. Streamlining the licensing process is essential for ease of doing business.
3. Market Misconceptions: Addressing misconceptions about steroid use and pollution is necessary, as misinformation can harm consumer confidence.
4. Disease Outbreaks: Disease control measures, vaccination programs, and robust biosecurity protocols are essential to prevent outbreaks. The recent avian influenza outbreak has posed a significant challenge, with several states witnessing culling and the deaths of thousands of birds. However, the industry remains resilient and is actively overcoming this setback.
5. Infrastructure Gaps: Investments in cold storage and logistics are needed to reduce post-production losses and improve overall supply chain efficiency.
IPEMA’s Role in Shaping the Poultry Sector
Networking is vital for growth in any industry, and the poultry sector is no exception. The Indian Poultry Equipment Manufacturers Association (IPEMA) has been working tirelessly to unite the poultry industry through its flagship exhibitions. The annual Poultry India Expo, which IPEMA has organized for the past two decades, has grown into one of South Asia's largest poultry expos, serving as an essential platform for collaboration and industry growth.
In addition to exhibitions, IPEMA plays a vital role in promoting innovation, technological advancements, and sustainable practices. Its ‘Knowledge Day’ seminars and other technical events throughout the year provide a platform for industry professionals to exchange ideas, discuss emerging trends, and adopt best practices. Through collaborations with international poultry events and countries of strategic importance, such as Russia and Nepal, IPEMA aims to introduce global innovations that can elevate the Indian poultry sector’s competitiveness.
South Asia's Biggest Poultry Event – Poultry India Expo
The Poultry India Expo has established itself as South Asia’s most significant poultry industry event. Over the years, it has become a global platform that fosters collaboration across various sectors, including feed production, pharma, equipment, breeding, processing, and biosecurity. By bringing together industry leaders, innovators, and policymakers, the event ensures networking remains a key driver of growth.
Highlights of Poultry India Expo 2024:
• Over 40,000 attendees and 400+ exhibitors from more than 50 countries.
• Knowledge Day Seminar with 1,500+ delegates, covering biosecurity, sustainable feed solutions, and poultry health.
• Global experts highlighted India’s growing role in ensuring food security.
• IPEMA’s process-driven approach and technological adoption contributed to the event's immense success.
Looking Ahead: 17th Poultry India Expo 2025
Scheduled for November 26–28, 2025, at HITEX, Hyderabad, the 17th Poultry India Expo promises to elevate the sector’s global presence. The upcoming expo will continue to focus on networking as a growth driver, providing a premier platform for international connectivity.
Key Highlights Include:
• Expanded international participation, showcasing the latest global innovations in poultry farming.
• Knowledge Day Seminar (November 25, 2025), offering insights from renowned experts on sustainability and technology in poultry farming.
• Emphasis on biosecurity and sustainability, with discussions on advanced farming techniques and eco-friendly practices.
• Strategic collaborations with global industry leaders, policymakers, and distributors.
• Live demonstrations and training sessions showcasing cutting-edge technologies and practices.
Global Networking: The Key to Growth
Networking is an essential factor for the growth of India’s poultry sector. Through IPEMA’s Poultry India Expo, the sector gains access to global innovations, best practices, and strategic alliances that drive its growth. By actively engaging in international poultry events, IPEMA fosters collaboration with countries that are leaders in poultry innovation, thus ensuring the adoption of the latest technologies and practices suited to the Indian market.
Future Opportunities and Recommendations
The poultry sector in India has immense potential for growth. To unlock these opportunities, several strategies can be implemented:
• Organic and Free-Range Farming: Catering to the rising demand for antibiotic-free products.
• Export Potential: Expanding exports by improving disease control and adhering to international quality standards.
• Technology Integration: Incorporating IoT, AI, and precision feeding systems to boost productivity.
• Value-Added Products: Processing poultry into ready-to-eat and frozen products to enhance revenue.
• Government Initiatives: Policies supporting rural farming and infrastructure development can provide a significant boost to the sector.
• Eggs in Mid-Day Meals: Including eggs six days a week in mid-day meal schemes to promote child nutrition and support the poultry industry.
Conclusion
India’s poultry industry is on a promising growth trajectory, contributing significantly to the nation’s economic development. With continued government support, international collaborations, and the adoption of advanced technologies, the sector can unlock new opportunities for further growth.
I invite all industry stakeholders to join us at the 17th Poultry India Expo 2025, from November 26–28, 2025, at HITEX, Hyderabad. Together, we can transform India into a global poultry powerhouse!
For more details, visit www.poultryindia.co.in or contact info@poultryindia.co.in
