Poultry industry in India Calls for Government Support Amid Rising Challenges
The poultry industry in India is grappling with numerous challenges, from skyrocketing feed costs to regulatory hurdles, says Uday Singh Bayas, President of Poultry India and the Indian Poultry Equipment Manufacturers Association (IPEMA).
In an interview with ETV Bharat, Mr. Bayas highlighted the urgent need for government intervention to support the sector. Maize, a key feed ingredient for poultry, has seen a surge in prices due to rising demand from the ethanol industry. "Farmers are opting to sell their maize to the ethanol sector," Bayas explained. "We need the government to double maize production to meet the poultry industry's requirements. Unfortunately, this hasn't happened at the scale we anticipated. Additionally, we've requested permission for free imports of maize and soya to ease the burden on poultry farmers."
The escalating cost of feed remains the industry's most pressing concern. "Maize and soya prices rise by 2-3% annually. Coupled with unpredictable weather, seasonal demand fluctuations, and disease outbreaks, it has become increasingly challenging for poultry farmers to sustain their operations," Bayas noted.
He emphasized the importance of increasing domestic maize and soya cultivation but underscored that government policies are crucial to addressing these issues. "We are actively encouraging farmers to grow more maize and soya, but the government must step in with supportive policies. With the right interventions, the poultry sector can continue to play a pivotal role in ensuring affordable nutrition and food security for the nation," Bayas said.
(Source: https://www.etvbharat)
