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Mahesh

15/10/23 08:24 AM IST

WOAH approves India's self-declaration stating it is free from bird flu

In News
  • The government said the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) has approved India's self-declaration stating that it is free from HPAI, commonly known as bird flu, in specific poultry compartments.
Avian Influenza
  • Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), commonly known as Bird Flu, was first detected in India in the state of Maharashtra in February 2006.
  • Since then, the country has experienced annual outbreaks of HPAI in different regions, leading to substantial economic losses.
  • The disease has been reported in 24 states and union territories, resulting in the culling of over 9 million birds to control its spread.
  • India's approach to controlling HPAI follows a "detect and cull" policy as outlined in the National Action Plan for Prevention, Control, and Containment of Avian Influenza (revised - 2021).
  • This comprehensive response includes the humane destruction of infected and exposed animals, eggs, feed, litter, and other contaminated materials.
  • Additionally, measures such as restricting the movement of poultry and poultry products, disinfection and clean-up of infected premises, and a Post-Operative Surveillance Plan (POSP) have been implemented.
  • It's important to note that vaccination against HPAI is not permitted in India.
Significance
  • These poultry compartments are located in four states of India, namely Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh.
  • This recognition by WOAH signifies India's commitment to international biosecurity standards and will contribute to enhancing the export potential of Indian poultry and poultry products, including meat and eggs.
  • India, as the third-largest producer of eggs (129.60 billion) and the fifth-largest producer of poultry meat (4.47 million tonnes) globally, is poised to capitalize on this achievement.
  • During the 2022-23 fiscal year, India exported poultry and poultry products to 64 countries, generating revenue of 134 million USD.
  • The approval of this self-declaration is expected to open up new opportunities for Indian poultry in the global market, contributing to the country's economic growth.
Source- PIB

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