Introduction
In the ongoing battle against Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), often called ‘bird flu,’ India has been making remarkable progress. The country has adopted globally recognised protocols to tackle the virus without resorting to vaccinations, and the results have been impressive. With 26 poultry farms successfully declared free of HPAI and another ten farms set to follow suit, India’s efforts have gained recognition from international regulatory agencies, including the World Organisation for Animal Health. This blog explores India’s journey in eradicating bird flu, the impact of avian influenza on the poultry industry, and the biosecurity measures that have been instrumental in achieving this success.
India’s Commitment to Biosecurity
India’s commitment to maintaining high standards related to animal health and biosecurity has played a pivotal role in its battle against bird flu. Parshottam Rupala, the Minister of State for Animal Husbandry, Dairying, and Fisheries, highlights India’s dedication to these principles. As the third-largest producer of eggs, with a staggering 129.60 billion produced annually, and the fifth-largest producer of poultry meat, contributing 4.47 million metric tonnes globally, India’s achievement in eradicating HPAI has significant implications for the country’s economy and international trade.
The Costly Nature of Bird Flu
Before implementing these stringent protocols, the poultry industry in India faced significant challenges due to bird flu outbreaks. With a population of 851 million birds at risk of infection, the industry demanded preventive measures to safeguard its millions of birds and the livelihoods of countless farmers. Avian influenza not only threatens the poultry industry but also endangers international trade and the health of wild birds, making it essential to control the virus effectively.
The ‘Detect and Cull’ Approach
India’s policy to control bird flu centres around the ‘detect and cull’ approach, involving the systematic detection of infected birds and the subsequent culling or destruction of infected and potentially infected animals. This approach, while effective, requires precision, dedication, and rigorous adherence to biosecurity measures to prevent further spread.
A History of Avian Influenza in India
India’s tryst with bird flu began in February 2006, when the virus was first detected in Navapur town, Maharashtra. Since then, the country has faced annual outbreaks of HPAI in various regions, resulting in substantial economic losses. Avian influenza has been reported in 24 states and the Union Territories, leading to the culling of over 9 million birds to control its spread. The most recent reported outbreak occurred in Navapur in 2021.
References to International Recognition
India’s efforts to eradicate the bird flu have not gone unnoticed. The World Organisation for Animal Health, a prominent international regulatory agency, has recently approved and recognised India’s achievements. This recognition underscores India’s commitment to maintaining high standards related to animal health and biosecurity.
Conclusion
In conclusion, India’s journey to eradicate highly pathogenic avian influenza without vaccination is a testament to its dedication to biosecurity and animal health. With the poultry industry being a vital component of the country’s economy and international trade, the successful implementation of ‘detect and cull’ protocols is paramount. The international recognition India has received further highlights the significance of its achievements in a global context.
As India continues its battle against bird flu, its success is a shining example of what can be accomplished through stringent biosecurity measures, dedication, and unwavering commitment to animal health. With additional farms set to be declared bird flu-free, India is poised to capitalise on its achievements and further solidify its position as a leader in the global poultry industry.
Through these efforts, India demonstrates that it is not only safeguarding its poultry industry and farmers’ livelihoods but also contributing to the well-being of wild birds and the integrity of international trade. As the nation continues to set the standard for avian influenza control, it paves the way for a safer and more secure future for the global poultry industry.
