Nashik: Navapur town in the tribal-dominated Nandurbar district of Maharashtra is once again confronting the threat of avian influenza, marking the third outbreak in two decades. This region, which hosts the highest number of poultry farms in the state, has prompted local poultry farmers to urgently call for stronger protective measures to safeguard both their birds and livelihoods.
Fresh Outbreak Raises Concerns
The poultry association has expressed deep concern as the town faces a new risk after previous outbreaks in 2006 and 2021. Arif Balesariya, president of the Nandurbar Poultry Farms Association, stated, "We sincerely hope it does not grow out of proportion and that the virus spread is contained at the earliest."
Out of the 38 poultry farms in Nandurbar district, 27 are located in Navapur taluka. Currently, seven farms have been affected by the infection, necessitating the culling of birds as per standard protocol. The district's poultry industry houses approximately 12 lakh birds across these farms. "If the infection spreads further, it will be a disaster for the industry once again," Balesariya warned.
Industry Growth and Vulnerability
Balesariya noted that the sector has grown steadily over the past 25 years due to factors such as availability of labour, raw materials, a conducive climate, and strong market access. "Proximity to Gujarat has helped the trade and ensured a good market, contributing significantly to the growth of the business," he added. While traders are mentally prepared to absorb losses, Balesariya cautioned that repeated viral outbreaks could have a devastating long-term impact on the industry. He highlighted that about 12 lakh birds together produce more than 9.5 lakh eggs daily, making constant health monitoring essential. "Birds are living organisms, not factory output. This requires manpower, investment and continuous effort," he said.
Inadequate Compensation Cited
Farmers also flagged insufficient government compensation. "Govt pays a maximum of Rs 140 per bird, Rs 4 per egg and Rs 25 per kg of destroyed feed. These rates do not reflect the actual market value or losses," said another poultry farmer who wished to remain anonymous. The farmer noted that his unit currently falls outside the 1-km epicentre of the infected farms and is taking all precautionary measures to prevent the disease from entering his premises.
