India Achieves Self-Declaration of Freedom from Avian Influenza for Poultry Compartments

October 16, 2023

In a significant development for India’s poultry industry, the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) has approved India’s self-declaration of freedom from Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in specific poultry compartments. This achievement demonstrates India’s commitment to maintaining high standards of animal health and biosecurity.

Background on Zoning and Compartmentalization

Zoning and compartmentalization are strategic tools used to establish and maintain groups of animals with specific health statuses for international trade and disease prevention.
Compartmentalization defines a sub-population of animals with a specified health status within a country’s territory, maintaining stringent management and husbandry practices following WOAH standards.

Avian Influenza in India

Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), or Bird Flu, was first detected in India in 2006, leading to annual outbreaks across various regions and significant economic losses.
India’s response follows a “detect and cull” policy, including the humane destruction of infected animals, restrictions on poultry movement, disinfection, and a Post-Operative Surveillance Plan (POSP).

Compartmentalization as a Key Control Measure

India adopted the concept of poultry compartmentalization to mitigate HPAI risks. Compartmentalization enhances animal health, reduces disease outbreak risks, and facilitates poultry trade.

Approval of Self-Declaration by WOAH

India’s Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying submitted a self-declaration of freedom from HPAI in 26 poultry compartments to WOAH, which was approved on October 13, 2023, coinciding with World Egg Day.
These compartments are located in Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh.
This recognition reflects India’s commitment to international biosecurity standards and is expected to boost exports of Indian poultry and poultry products.

Economic Impact and Export Potential

India, as the third-largest producer of eggs and the fifth-largest producer of poultry meat globally, is poised to benefit from 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.

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