With nearly three decades of experience in the Animal Nutrition and Poultry Industry, Ms. Sandhya Shetty exemplifies passion, perseverance, and leadership. Her career began in the pharmaceutical sector with Norris Medicines as a Medical Representative at Mangalore HQ before transitioning into Animal Nutrition. Over the years, she has contributed to esteemed organizations such as Vetcare, Provimi, Lotus Farms, and Cargill in various roles. These experiences allowed her to gain invaluable industry insights and collaborate with visionary leaders who have shaped the poultry sector.

Currently, Sandhya serves as Vice President – HR at Noveltech, a Goldman Sachs-owned company. Over the years, she has taken on key roles across Marketing Administration, Product Management, Customer Relationship Management, Corporate Communication, Sales Force Effectiveness, and Business HR. Her contributions have significantly driven organizational growth, people development, and strategic transformation.

Academically, she holds a Science degree from St. Aloysius, an MBA in Marketing from Symbiosis and an Executive MBA in HR from IIM Kolkata. Her unwavering commitment to innovation, leadership, and mentorship makes her a vital force in the poultry industry.

As part of Poultry Creations ‘Pioneering Women in the Poultry Industry’ feature, we had the privilege of interviewing Sandhya Shetty to gain insights into her journey, challenges, and vision for the future.

Welcoming Women to the Poultry Industry: A Call to Make a Difference
The poultry industry offers vast opportunities beyond farming—spanning innovation, technology and sustainability

…Sandhya

Poultry Creations: Your journey in the animal nutrition and poultry industry spans nearly three decades. What inspired you to transition from the pharmaceutical sector to this industry?

Sandhya: Back in 1995, I would call it the nascent era of poultry in India. The Animal Nutrition & Poultry industry was not as organized as it is today. When I moved to Bangalore in search of a Sales Representative job in this industry, I realized that companies were reluctant to hire women for sales roles due to security concerns and the necessity of working in rural areas. Despite these barriers, I was determined to break through. During my job search, I had the opportunity to face an interview with Mr. O.P. Singh, a name that needs no introduction in the poultry industry. The interview process was challenging and rigorous, but it was a turning point in my career. He saw potential in me and assured me that while the journey was tough, it would also be rewarding, offering me a career filled with exposure and growth.

My transition from pharmaceuticals to animal nutrition was not just a career shift; it was a bold step into an industry. The lack of structured opportunities made it even more challenging, but I saw this as an opportunity to learn, adapt, and prove my capabilities by joining a sales-supportive role.
Over the years, I have worked with leading organizations like Vetcare, Provimi, Lotus Farms, and Cargill. Each role shaped my understanding of nutrition, poultry management, and business strategy. Working closely with visionary leaders helped me develop a deep industry perspective and navigate the evolving landscape.

Today, as Vice President – HR at Noveltech, I look back at my journey with immense pride. My experiences across Sales & Marketing Administration, Product Management, Customer Relationship Management, Sales Force Effectiveness, Corporate Communication and Business HR have allowed me to contribute significantly to organizational growth and people development.
The journey was never easy, but the passion, perseverance, and mentorship I received helped me carve a niche in the poultry industry. Looking ahead, I remain committed to innovation, leadership, and mentorship, ensuring that more talented individuals, especially women, find their place in this dynamic field.

Poultry Creations: Having worked across various domains such as Product Management, CRM, Sales Force Effectiveness, and HR, which role has been the most challenging and rewarding for you?

Sandhya: Each role I have taken on has come with its own set of challenges and rewards. However, the two roles stand out as the most challenging and fulfilling:
Sales Force Effectiveness (SFE) and Business HR.
Sales Force Effectiveness: Driving Revenue and Business Growth
My time in SFE was particularly interesting as it directly influenced revenue-generating teams. In both animal nutrition and pharmaceuticals, the sales force is the backbone of the business, determining market penetration, customer relationships, and revenue growth.
A key challenge was ensuring the sales team provided value-based solutions rather than just selling products. This requires:
– Implementing structured training programs to enhance product knowledge.
– Standardizing sales processes for better market penetration.
– Introducing performance metrics to improve sales productivity.
– Bridging the gap between marketing and sales for seamless execution.
By introducing Sales Force Automation, these efforts translated into higher efficiency, improved customer relationships, and revenue growth. The most rewarding part was witnessing the transformation of sales professionals into highly effective market influencers.
Business HR: Building a Strong People-Centric Organization
Unlike SFE, which focused on revenue, Business HR was about people – the true drivers of the organization. When I stepped into this role, HR policies lacked structure, unlike sales and production, which had clear processes.
The focus was on building:
– A structured recruitment and onboarding process.
– Employee engagement programs to retain talent.
– Career development frameworks for internal growth.
– A performance-driven culture balancing accountability and motivation.
Designing HR policies from scratch to be both business-centric and employee-friendly was complex yet fulfilling. Business HR required close collaboration with leadership teams and industry peers to balance business goals with people aspirations.

Poultry Creations: What major transformations have you witnessed in the poultry industry, particularly in terms of people development and workforce management?

Sandhya: The poultry industry has undergone significant transformations over the years, not just in terms of technology and production efficiency, but also in people development and workforce management. The sector, once unstructured and male dominated, has evolved into a more professional, process-driven, and inclusive industry. Some key transformations include:
-Shift from an unstructured workforce to a professional industry.
– Greater emphasis on sales and technical training.
– Inclusion of women in sales and leadership roles.
– Adoption of structured performance management systems.
– Employee retention and engagement strategies.
– Integration of technology in workforce management.
– Greater focus on work-life balance and employee well-being.
– Evolution from family-run businesses to corporate-led organizations.
– Structured career progression for veterinarians and nutritionists.
– Rise of leadership development programs.
The future of the poultry industry lies in continuous upskilling, digital transformation, and advancing a strong, engaged workforce.

Poultry Creations: As a leader in HR, how do you adopt a culture of excellence and innovation at Noveltech?

Sandhya: At Noveltech, excellence and innovation are embedded in our culture. As an MNC driven organization, we prioritize a people-centric approach, ensuring employees feel valued, empowered, and motivated to perform at their best.

People-Centric & Ethical Culture
Our guiding principle is simple: our people are at the heart of everything we do. We invest in continuous learning, leadership development, and career progression to nurture talent and drive business success. Integrity and transparency form the foundation of our organization, with a zero-tolerance policy for corruption and unethical practices.

Safety & Governance Excellence
Employee safety is non-negotiable at Noveltech. We maintain stringent safety standards, regularly reviewed and aligned with best practices. Our whistleblowing policy advances an open work environment where employees can raise concerns without fear of retaliation.

Leadership & Business Excellence
Our CEO & Managing Director, Dr. Sandeep Karkhanis, a renowned nutritionist and scientist, firmly believes that leadership drives success. We cultivate leaders at every level, encouraging ownership and informed decision-making. Our highly qualified board provides strategic direction for long-term sustainability.

Innovation & Continuous Improvement
Innovation is central to our operations. We create an environment where creativity thrives, empowering employees to contribute new ideas in process optimization and technology adoption.

Sustained Growth Through Culture
A strong organizational culture translates into business success. By adopting integrity, transparency and excellence, we ensure high engagement, productivity, and alignment with business goals.

Poultry Creations: Being one of the pioneering women in a traditionally male-dominated sector, what challenges did you face and how did you overcome them?

Sandhya: Entering the poultry and animal feed industry three decades ago was a formidable challenge, as it was predominantly male dominated. Throughout my journey, I encountered different leadership styles—some supportive, others rigid. As professionals, we must navigate such dynamics with agility and adaptability. Resilience plays a crucial role in sustaining success, and I learned early on to handle these variations without losing focus.
One major challenge was balancing career and motherhood. Despite being a top performer, I faced scrutiny over work hours rather than my contributions, based on outdated norms. When I rose to a leadership role, I prioritized policies that supported working mothers, including a dedicated nursing time from 12 PM to 4 PM for up to six months after maternity leave till baby turns one year, to help women transition back to work.
Initially, there was resistance, but I believed performance should be measured by outcomes, not rigid hours. Over time, we saw higher retention of skilled female employees, increased engagement, and improved efficiency. This experience reinforced my belief that leadership is not just about driving profits but about understanding real workplace challenges and implementing solutions that help employees thrive. Seeing more women excel in our industry today is a witness to the impact of these changes.

Poultry Creations: As a marketing expert, what strategies do you recommend for effectively promoting poultry products like chicken and eggs? How can industry enhance consumer awareness and drive increased demand for these products?

Sandhya: I am not an expert, there are several stalwarts in the industry who can suggest us good strategy to lead on this…. However, to share my opinion….
India’s struggle with malnutrition makes it essential to promote protein-rich foods like chicken and eggs. Raising consumer awareness through public campaigns, advertisements, and school nutrition programs can highlight their affordability and health benefits. Industry associations like CLFMA, PFI, NECC, and IPSA should collaborate to advocate for policies integrating poultry into national nutrition initiatives.

Government support, including eggs in Mid-Day Meals, subsidies for poultry farmers, and improved farming techniques, can enhance accessibility.
Marketing should target both urban and rural consumers through digital campaigns, influencer collaborations, and grassroots activations. Social media can help debunk myths, while partnerships with healthcare providers and NGOs can drive nutrition-focused efforts. Retail promotions, loyalty programs, and restaurant collaborations can boost demand. By uniting government, industry leaders, and educators, India can make poultry a dietary staple, promoting better health nationwide.

Poultry Creations: How do you balance your professional responsibilities with your family life?

Sandhya: Balancing professional responsibilities with family life is no longer just about work-life balance; it’s about work-life integration. In today’s world, where remote work, travel, and global collaborations are common, seamlessly blending work and personal life has become the key to managing both effectively.

I work in Hyderabad while my family is in Bangalore, and frequent travel is part of my job. Rather than seeing this as a challenge, I have built a strong support system and trained my family to manage routines independently while maintaining constant communication. Prioritization and delegation help both at work and home, ensuring efficiency and self-sufficiency.
Technology plays a vital role – video calls, messaging, and shared calendars keep me connected. Setting boundaries ensures I am mentally present for my family despite limited time. Instead of perfect balance, I focus on flexibility, adapting as needed. Work and life coexist, and integrating them allows me to stay productive, fulfilled, and connected.

Poultry Creations: What message would you like to share with the younger generation, especially women, who aspire to build a career in the poultry industry?

Sandhya: Welcoming Women to the Poultry Industry: A Call to Make a Difference
The poultry industry offers vast opportunities beyond farming—spanning innovation, technology, and sustainability. Women are already making strides as farm managers, feed technologists, and entrepreneurs, and there is immense potential for more to lead and innovate. Success in this field requires passion, perseverance, and continuous learning, from technical expertise to business strategy. Networking, mentorship, and adaptability are key to overcoming challenges and excelling in leadership roles. The industry is evolving, and strong, visionary women can drive its future, Are you ready to make your mark?

Poultry Creations: How do you think Poultry Creations Magazine can enhance its content quality to better serve the industry and its readers?

Sandhya: Poultry Creations Magazine has established itself as a valuable resource for poultry professionals, farmers, and enthusiasts….
I recommend, Be Local – Go Global Approach
Poultry Creations Magazine can enhance its impact by integrating industry insights, academic collaborations, and a global perspective. Partnering with institutions like ICAR, IVRI, and agricultural universities will attract researchers, students, and industry professionals while boosting credibility. Expanding content to include market trends, technological advancements, and expert interviews will provide diverse perspectives and actionable insights. A dedicated section for young professionals, career guidance, and success stories will bridge the gap between academia and industry. Strengthening digital presence with interactive content, webinars, and mobile-friendly formats will increase accessibility. By encouraging knowledge exchange and inclusiveness, the magazine can become a leading global resource for the poultry industry.

Dr Bhaskar Choudhary
Animal Nutritionist
Biochem Zusatzstoffe Handels- und Produktionsgesellschaft mbH

Abstract:
In the modern poultry industry, ensuring optimal health and productivity in layers, breeders, and broilers under various stress conditions is vital. Feed additives like choline chloride, synthetic betaine (anhydrous and HCl forms), and natural betaine are used to enhance performance. However, synthetic choline chloride and betaine often contain residues of ethylene oxide and trimethylamine (TMA), which pose significant risks to poultry health, including fatty liver syndrome, reproductive challenges, and respiratory hazards. The chemical synthesis of these additives highlights the adverse effects of residue contamination and explains why natural Betaine (anhydrous )(Hepatron/Beta Pro BL) is the superior choice.

1. Chemical Synthesis of Choline Chloride, Betaine, and Betaine Hcl
Choline Chloride Synthesis:
Choline chloride is produced by reacting ethylene oxide with trimethylamine, followed by neutralization with hydrochloric acid:
C2H4O + (CH3)3N + HCl —- (CH3)3N+CH2CH2OH.Cl-

Synthetic Betaine Anhydrous Synthesis:
Betaine is synthesized by methylating glycine with trimethylamine:
NH2CH2COOH + 3(CH3)3N—– (CH3)3N+CH2COO-

Betaine Hydrochloride Synthesis:
Betaine HCl is formed by reacting betaine with hydrochloric acid:
(CH3)3N+CH2COO- + HCl —– (CH3)3N+CH2COOH.Cl-

2. Risks Associated with Ethylene Oxide and Trimethylamine Residues
Ethylene Oxide (EO): permissible limit 0.2mg/g
Source: Ethylene oxide is used as a key reactant in choline chloride synthesis.

Risks and Effects:
Fatty Liver: Ethylene oxide residues exacerbate lipid accumulation in the liver, leading to fatty liver syndrome, impairing metabolism and egg production in layers.
Reproductive Challenges: In breeders, EO residues can induce oxidative damage to ovarian tissues, affecting fertility and hatchability.
Respiratory Hazards: Chronic exposure to ethylene oxide fumes or residues increases oxidative stress in respiratory tissues, leading to reduced lung function and increased susceptibility to respiratory infections.

Trimethylamine (TMA): permissible limit 10 mg/kg
Source: TMA is used as a methyl donor in the production of choline chloride and synthetic betaine.

Risks and Effects:
Fatty Liver: Excess TMA disrupts lipid metabolism by impairing the synthesis of very low-density lipoproteins (VLDL), leading to hepatic fat accumulation.
Reproductive Challenges: In breeders, TMA residues interfere with reproductive hormone balance, reducing fertility and chick quality.
Respiratory Hazards: Volatile TMA emissions irritate the respiratory tract, causing chronic respiratory distress in broilers and layers, especially in poorly ventilated environments.

3. Challenges of Synthetic Additives in Poultry Nutrition
Residue Toxicity: Synthetic choline chloride and betaine often leave traces of ethylene oxide and TMA, causing long-term health risks.
Liver Dysfunction: These residues impair liver detoxification and metabolic efficiency, leading to reduced productivity.
Limited Stress Resilience: Synthetic forms lack the bioactive properties of natural betaine, making them less effective in managing stress.

4. Natural Betaine (anhydrous) (Hepatron/Beta Pro BL): A Safer and More Effective Solution
Residue-Free and Safe: Hepatron/Beta Pro BL, derived from natural sources, is free of ethylene oxide and TMA residues, eliminating the associated risks of liver damage, reproductive issues, and respiratory stress.
Superior Liver Support:
– Enhances lipid metabolism, preventing fatty liver syndrome.
– Boosts detoxification pathways to handle feed-related toxins more effectively.
Enhanced Stress Management:
– Natural osmoregulatory properties stabilize cellular hydration under heat and osmotic stress.
– Promotes better feed conversion and growth performance.

5. Correlation Between Natural Betaine and Poultry Health
Fatty Liver Syndrome Prevention: Natural betaine spares choline and methionine in feed, reducing the metabolic burden on the liver and enhancing lipid transport efficiency.
Reproductive Health Support: Hepatron/BetaPro BL optimizes methylation pathways, improving ovarian function, egg production, and hatchability in breeders and layers.
Respiratory Protection: Unlike TMA-containing additives, Hepatron/Beta Pro BL improves cellular hydration and stress tolerance, protecting the respiratory tract from environmental and metabolic stress.

6. Stress in Poultry: A Multi-Faceted Challenge
Types of Stress in Poultry:
1. Environmental Stress: Heat & cold (Environment) stress in broilers & layer
2. Nutritional Stress: Imbalanced diets and mycotoxin contamination.
3. Physiological Stress: Vaccination, debeaking, and transportation.
4. Production Stress: Egg production in layers and rapid growth demands in broilers.

Role of Hepatron/Beta Pro BL in Feed application for Stress Mitigation:
Layers: Reduces egg drop during heat/Cold stress (Environment physiologica stress/ and improves shell quality.
Breeders: Enhances fertility and hatchability under environmental and nutritional stress.
Broilers: Improves growth performance and livability during transportation and heat stress.
Application of Hepatron/BetaPro BL in Drinking water: 6 hours improved water intake during treatment & outbreak condition it is advisable apart from stress mitigation what mentioned in Feed application for quick support as a clinical Nutrition

7. Why Natural Betaine (Hepatron/Beta Pro BL) is Superior

Conclusion
Residues of ethylene oxide and trimethylamine in synthetic choline chloride and betaine pose significant risks to poultry health, including fatty liver, reproductive challenges, and respiratory hazards. Natural (anhydrous )Betaine (Hepatron/Beta Pro BL) offers a safer, residue-free alternative with superior bioavailability and efficacy. By supporting liver function, improving reproductive outcomes, and protecting respiratory health, Hepatron/Beta Pro BL proves indispensable for sustainable and profitable poultry farming.
References are available on request.

Biosecurity Measures – The First Line of Defence Against Bird Flu

Dr. Sagrika Bhat1, Dr. Sundus Gazal2, Dr. Sabahat Gazal3and Dr. Anvesha Bhan4
1Division of Veterinary Biochemistry, 2,3,4Division of Veterinary Microbiology
and Immunology, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Jammu

Microscopic pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites, pose significant threats to poultry health, with avian influenza being a major concern due to its high mortality, economic impact, and zoonotic potential. The disease is caused by Influenza A virus belonging to the family Orthomyxoviridae. Influenza A viruses are divided into subtypes based on two proteins on the surface of the virus: hemagglutinin (H) and neuraminidase (N). There are 18 different hemagglutinin subtypes and 11 different neuraminidase subtypes (H1 through H18 and N1 through N11, respectively). The highly pathogenic strains such as H5N1, H7N9, and H9N2 have been reported to cause severe disease. The virus spreads through direct contact with infected birds, contaminated feed, water, and fomites, while wild migratory birds serve as natural reservoirs, enabling global transmission. Highly pathogenic avian influenza can lead to near-total flock mortality, significantly disrupting poultry production and trade. Additionally, zoonotic strains such as H5N1 and H7N9 can cause severe respiratory illness, pneumonia, multi-organ failure, and high fatality rates in humans, necessitating global surveillance by organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO).

Poultry farms constantly face the risk of Avian influenza and other infectious diseases that persist in dust, droppings, and farm waste, making biosecurity a fundamental component of disease prevention. Biosecurity measures serve as the first line of defence, preventing pathogen entry and transmission through stringent hygiene, controlled farm access, and optimized housing conditions. Effective biosecurity minimizes outbreaks of avian influenza, Newcastle disease, duck plague, and bacterial infections such as fowl cholera and mycoplasmosis, which compromise poultry health, reduce productivity, and weaken consumer confidence.

Given the increasing incidence of avian influenza worldwide, including India, strengthening biosecurity is imperative to safeguard poultry health and public safety. Disease prevention strategies must integrate high-quality stock, proper housing, clean feed and water, regular disinfection, and restricted farm access. Additionally, modifying industry practices in poultry production, transport, and marketing is essential to curb disease spread. Veterinary authorities must continuously evaluate and refine biosecurity measures in high-risk areas while considering economic and social impacts. Several biosecurity measures have been implemented or require further revision in Asian countries, including India, to effectively control avian influenza and ensure sustainable poultry production. Above all, biosecurity must be a continuous effort rather than a reactive response to outbreaks.

A well-structured, proactive approach remains critical for preventing disease outbreaks, ensuring industry stability, and minimizing zoonotic risks.

Key Biosecurity Measures in the Poultry Industry
1. Marketing Systems: Live bird markets serve as critical points for avian influenza (AI) transmission due to continuous operation, overnight poultry retention, and the reintroduction of unsold birds to farms. These practices facilitate pathogen circulation. Implementing a mandatory market rest period of 24 hours in a week, accompanied by thorough cleaning and disinfection, is essential to mitigate viral persistence and spread.

2. Species Segregation: Domestic waterfowl and quail act as reservoirs for avian influenza viruses. Their cohabitation, transportation, and marketing alongside other poultry should be restricted to minimize interspecies transmission. Additionally, swine reared in proximity to infected poultry farms are found to be infected with HPAI (Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza) therefore should undergo systematic veterinary surveillance. In cases of confirmed avian influenza infection, culling of affected herds is recommended to prevent viral reassortment and potential zoonotic spillover.

3. Farming Practices: Extensive poultry rearing systems, particularly in village settings, pose a heightened risk for avian influenza introduction due to their lack of biosecurity controls. Strategic vaccination programs targeting backyard poultry can enhance herd immunity. Commercial farms should adhere to an ‘all-in, all-out’ production model to reduce pathogen exposure and poultry workers must adhere to strict biosecurity protocols, including cleaning, disinfecting, or changing protective clothing, equipment, and footwear before entering and after leaving farms.

4. Transport Biosecurity: Transport cages and egg containers should be constructed from non-porous materials such as plastic or metal over wooden cages to facilitate effective disinfection. To prevent environmental contamination and disease spread, bio-secure transport protocols should be implemented. This includes minimizing faecal contamination during poultry unloading, ensuring transport cages are cleaned and disinfected before returning to farms, and using easily sanitized materials for transporting table eggs, fertile eggs, and day-old chicks.

5. Compartmentalization: In regions where avian influenza is endemic, creating compartmentalized poultry populations with distinct health statuses is essential for disease control and international trade compliance. This requires strict biosecurity measures, including traceability of fertilized eggs, certified hatchery and feed sources, vermin control, and regulated transport. Poultry operators must maintain detailed records of suppliers, egg crate circulation, employee responsibilities, and transport activities to ensure compliance and effective disease containment.

Mitigation of Stress through Managemental Interventions
While biosecurity is crucial for disease prevention, stress reduction is equally important in enhancing poultry resistance to infections, including avian influenza. Environmental factors such as high temperatures, ammonia build-up, overcrowding, feed deprivation, handling, and transportation induce physiological stress, compromising immunity. Strategies such as adjusting feeding schedules, providing cool drinking water, supplementing essential nutrients, and optimizing dietary energy and amino acid levels help mitigate heat stress. Maintaining appropriate temperature, ventilation, and humidity is vital for flock health, especially in regions with high heat and humidity. Since wet litter contributes significantly to ammonia production, proper litter management, ventilation, and dietary adjustments are necessary to reduce ammonia levels and support biosecurity measures.

Nutritional Biosecurity Measures
Poultry immunity depends on proper nutrition, as essential nutrients regulate immune cell activity and function. Balanced diets rich in proteins, vitamins, trace minerals, and energy sources are critical for disease resistance. Probiotics enhance immunocompetence by stimulating antibody production, while prebiotics selectively promote beneficial gut bacteria, improving immune function. Additionally, mycotoxins in poultry feed suppress immune responses, making birds more susceptible to infections. Strict feed quality control and mycotoxin mitigation strategies should be integral to biosecurity programs.

Hygienic Disposal of Poultry Waste
Poultry operations generate waste, including dead birds, broken eggs, manure, litter, and contaminated equipment, which serve as reservoirs for pathogens. Proper disposal methods include burial, incineration, rendering, and composting.
Burial is effective but requires a 90-day period for pathogen deactivation before use as fertilizer. Incineration is reliable but often limited by facility size. Open burning is costly and environmentally unfavourable. Rendering is viable if decontamination is ensured, though private facilities may be reluctant to handle infected material. Composting within farm premises minimizes the risk of disease transmission during transport. Additionally, high-risk practices like using contaminated water and recycling untreated poultry waste should be strictly prohibited.

Wild Bird and Vector Control for Disease Prevention
Wild birds, particularly waterfowl, act as reservoirs for avian influenza and other pathogens, and play an important role in introducing infections to poultry farms. Effective biosecurity includes wild bird-proofing quarantine facilities and preventing their access to contaminated areas. Rodent control is equally essential, as rats and mice serve as mechanical carriers of the pathogens. A structured eradication program should minimize their dispersal from infected sites. Flying insects also contribute to disease transmission; thus, integrated pest management strategies should be implemented to reduce their presence in poultry sheds.
Immunomodulation through Nutritional Supplementation and Genetic Strategies
Regular supplementation of vitamins, minerals, and proteins strengthen poultry immunity and should be a core component of modern biosecurity. Nutrient deficiencies compromise resistance, increasing vulnerability to avian influenza and other diseases. As the influenza virus rapidly mutates and can exist as various subtypes and pathotypes, it questions the efficacy of existing vaccines and antivirals, and hence, genetic interventions offer a promising alternative. Screening poultry populations for disease-resistant genes, particularly in native breeds, and incorporating these traits through selective breeding can enhance flock resilience against infections.

Vaccination Strategies for Avian Influenza
Vaccination integrated with biosecurity measures can act as a critical tool for influenza control. Vaccines should provide adequate protection and minimize virus shedding. Vaccination programs coupled with virological and serological surveillance can be used to effectively detect viral mutations and assess vaccine effectiveness. In past influenza outbreaks in Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh, India successfully controlled the disease through culling and biosecurity measures. Establishing vaccine banks and enhancing domestic vaccine production are essential for rapid response to outbreaks. Policymakers must decide on vaccination strategies based on epidemiological data and national disease trends.

Strengthening Quarantine and Flock Profiling
Strict quarantine protocols are crucial in preventing disease introduction through newly acquired birds. Newly introduced poultry should be isolated for at least 21 days, monitored for clinical symptoms, and tested (blood, faecal, and nasal swabs) before integration with existing flocks. Beyond farm-level quarantine, strict regulations should be enforced to control cross-border movement of live poultry and poultry products.

Conclusion:
Effective biosecurity is the cornerstone of bird flu prevention and control, serving as the primary defence against disease outbreaks in poultry. Raising awareness among poultry farmers, industry stakeholders, and policymakers is essential for strengthening biosecurity at all levels. Training programs for grassroots poultry managers should be prioritized to ensure the proper implementation of preventive measures. In addition to immunity-boosting strategies and advancements in disease control, continuous surveillance of avian influenza and other infectious diseases is crucial. A proactive and well-enforced biosecurity framework not only safeguards poultry health and industry stability but also minimizes public health risks associated with zoonotic disease transmission. By integrating stringent biosecurity protocols with modern disease prevention strategies, the poultry sector can achieve long-term sustainability and resilience against emerging threats like avian influenza.

We Invest in Farms, Mills, Labs & Infrastructure— Now, It’s Time to Invest in People!

Dr. G. Gopal Reddy, Life Coach – P3, Bengaluru

Introduction
Humans possess immense potential, reflected in their ability to achieve remarkable feats. However, realizing these capabilities often depends on essential life skills. Despite having goals, knowledge, and ambition, many individuals struggle to achieve success due to a lack of these fundamental skills.
The World Health Organization (WHO) defines life skills as “abilities for adaptive and positive behavior that enable individuals to deal effectively with the demands and challenges of everyday life.” These skills are essential for personal growth, societal integration, and professional success, shaping how individuals interact with their environment and respond to challenges.

Essential Life Skills
According to WHO, some key life skills include:
– Self-awareness
– Empathy
– Decision-making
– Creative thinking
– Effective communication
– Stress management
– Critical thinking
– Emotional regulation
– Problem-solving
– Building healthy relationships

These skills can be categorized into three core areas:
1. Cognitive Skills: Critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making
2. Personal Development Skills: Self-awareness, stress management and adaptability
3. Social Skills: Communication, teamwork and empathy

Importance of Life Skills in Poultry Farming
The poultry industry plays a pivotal role in food security and economic growth. It provides a vital source of protein and supports the livelihoods of millions worldwide. However, the sector also faces various challenges, including:
1. Disease Outbreaks: Poultry farmers must manage risks related to avian diseases that can cause major economic losses.
2. Market Fluctuations: Price instability in feed and poultry products affects profitability.
3. Sustainability Concerns: Environmental factors like waste management and resource efficiency must be addressed.
4. Technological Innovations: Adopting new practices and tools requires continuous learning and adaptability.
To navigate these challenges, life skills training is an invaluable asset for poultry professionals.

Benefits of Life Skills Training in Poultry Farming
1. Enhanced Decision-Making and Problem-Solving
Poultry farming requires strategic decision-making in areas such as breed selection, nutrition, and disease control. By developing problem-solving abilities, farmers can assess risks, optimize resources, and improve productivity.
2. Effective Communication and Collaboration
Communication is essential for building relationships with suppliers, veterinarians, and consumers. Training in interpersonal skills enables farmers to negotiate better deals, market their products efficiently, and work collaboratively in cooperative ventures.
3. Stress Management and Resilience
Farmers often face unpredictable situations such as disease outbreaks or financial setbacks. Life skills training equips them with techniques to manage stress, stay organized, and maintain a positive outlook, ensuring long-term success.
4. Adaptability and Continuous Learning
The poultry industry is evolving with technological advancements and changing market demands. Farmers who embrace lifelong learning can integrate modern techniques, improve efficiency, and remain competitive.
5. Entrepreneurial Mindset
A strong foundation in financial management, risk assessment, and innovation helps poultry entrepreneurs identify new opportunities. Whether venturing into organic poultry, processed products, or export markets, life skills provide a crucial edge.

Real-World Impact of Life Skills Training
A poultry training initiative in rural Kenya demonstrated the power of life skills in transforming livelihoods. Farmers who received training in financial literacy, disease management, and negotiation skills reported increased profits and better business sustainability. One participant, Joseph, shared: “Before the training, I struggled to manage my farm effectively. Learning problem-solving and business skills helped me grow my enterprise and improve my family’s income.”

Overcoming Challenges in Life Skills Education
While life skills training offers immense benefits, challenges remain:
1. Limited Access to Training: Rural farmers often have fewer opportunities for skill development.
2. Cultural Barriers: Traditional farming practices can sometimes hinder the adoption of new approaches.
3. Resource Constraints: Implementing large-scale training programs requires significant investment.
Moving Forward: Expanding Life Skills Training in Poultry Farming
To maximize the impact of life skills education in the poultry sector, collaboration is essential. Government agencies, educational institutions, and private organizations can work together to develop tailored training programs. Additionally, digital learning platforms and mobile applications can increase accessibility, ensuring that farmers worldwide benefit from essential life skills training.

Conclusion
Life skills play a fundamental role in the success and sustainability of the poultry industry. By equipping farmers with essential abilities such as problem-solving, communication, and adaptability, we empower them to overcome challenges, enhance productivity, and build resilient businesses. As the industry continues to evolve, investing in life skills training will be key to ensuring a thriving and prosperous future for poultry professionals globally.

Nuance Biotechnology, a rapidly emerging player in the feed additives industry, has made significant strides in 2024 by acquiring two prominent French companies—Global Nutrition International and NutriConcept. This strategic move has bolstered their global footprint, expanded R&D capabilities and facilitated their entry into key markets, including India. Poultry Creations, along with other poultry media, had the privilege of speaking with Dr. Nemanja Todorovic, Chief Business Officer and Mr. Joginder Singh Uppal, Business Director, South Asia, during the 35th AGM of the Poultry Federation of India in Gurugram to discuss their vision, innovations and plans for the Indian market

Entering the Indian Market and Expansion Strategies:

When did Nuance Biotech enter the Indian market and what are your strategies for expansion?
Dr. Nemanja Todorovic: India is not just a country; it is a continent in itself with immense potential in biotechnology and livestock. Recognizing this, we have appointed knowledgeable professionals like Mr. Uppal to lead our initiatives. Our key strategies include:
1. Forging strategic partnerships with key industry players.
2. Expanding distribution networks for broader market penetration.
3. Collaborating with research institutions to localize our products.
4. Educating farmers on the benefits of postbiotics and other innovations tailored to Indian conditions.”

Joginder Singh Uppal: “We launched our South Asian operations in June 2024 with a strong focus on poultry and dairy. Our flagship products, Nu.biom Aves for poultry and Nu.biom Bos for dairy, enhance resilience, performance and farm profitability. Our goal is to empower farmers through innovative solutions backed by scientific research and technical expertise.”

Understanding Postbiotics

Question: Can you explain the difference between postbiotics and other types of biotics?
Dr. Nemanja Todorovic: “Biotics are broadly categorized into prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics:
1. Prebiotics serve as a nutrient source for beneficial gut bacteria.
2. Probiotics are live microorganisms that improve gut health.
3. Postbiotics are metabolic byproducts of probiotics, offering stable and targeted benefits without the viability concerns of probiotics.

Our postbiotics enhance gut microbiota balance, optimize nutrient utilization and contribute to immune modulation. Imagine prebiotics as soil, probiotics as rice growing in the field and postbiotics as rice noodles ready for consumption.”

Tailoring Solutions for the Indian Market

Question: How does Nuance Biotech cater to the unique needs of the Indian market?
Joginder Singh Uppal: “We offer tailored solutions to address challenges in poultry and dairy farming, such as:
Postbiotics: A novel concept with proven benefits for immunity, egg quality and overall productivity.
Global Biotics: Products like mycotoxin binders (e.g., Global Fix) and acidifiers that address vital industry concerns.

Our goal is to support farmers with innovative products backed by research, while also educating them about sustainable and profitable farming practices.”

Market Strategy and Customer Engagement

Question: Who is your primary target in the market—feed mills, breeders, GP operators, commercial broiler farmers or integrators?
Joginder Singh Uppal: “Our primary focus is on feed mills since our products are predominantly feed additives. About 60-70% of the industry relies on feed, making this our initial target. Our secondary focus is integrators and large-scale farmers, including layer farmers who produce their own feed. Products like NutriGut and Globacid DW are designed for these segments.”

Unique Selling Proposition and Market Entry

Question: With several toxin binders and acidifiers in the market, what makes your products stand out?
Dr. Nemanja Todorovic: “Our precision production technology sets us apart. From raw material selection and fermentation to production and quality control, every step is meticulously executed. Our R&D-driven approach ensures high efficacy. Global Nutrition, part of our portfolio, has been a trusted name since 2002, exporting to over 40 countries. This global presence underscores the reliability and effectiveness of our products.”

Question: Have your products been introduced to the Indian market yet?
Dr. Nemanja Todorovic: “We commenced operations in mid-2024, focusing on key partnerships and collaborations. Our first consignment is scheduled to arrive next month, allowing us to engage with clients and initiate trials. Discussions with several companies are already underway.”

Future Innovations and Long-Term Vision

Question: Can you share upcoming innovations or product launches for the Indian poultry sector?
Joginder Singh Uppal: “Our focus extends beyond product launches—we provide integrated solutions. Enhancing animal resilience is at the core of our philosophy. By leveraging our expertise in microbial metabolites, we develop solutions tailored to specific market needs. While poultry and dairy remain our primary sectors, we are continuously evolving to address industry challenges.”

Question: What are your long-term plans for the Indian market?
Dr. Nemanja Todorovic: “Our strategy is structured around three key phases:
1. Establishing Partnerships – We have made significant progress in forging valuable collaborations.
2. Regional Expansion – In addition to India, we are targeting Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal and Sri Lanka.
3. Direct Sales and Marketing – While working with distributors for outreach, we also plan to engage directly with key accounts representing 50-60% of the poultry industry.”

Sustainability and Industry Challenges

Question: What steps is Nuance Biotech taking to ensure product sustainability?
Dr. Nemanja Todorovic: “Sustainability is at the core of our innovation strategy. We focus on enhancing nutrient utilization, reducing waste and minimizing environmental impact. For example, our solutions target ammonia control in poultry and aquaculture. Additionally, our postbiotic solutions have shown promise in reducing methane emissions in dairy cattle, and we plan to conduct further trials in India with leading research institutions.”

Question: Unlike poultry, the Indian dairy sector consists largely of unorganized small farmers. How does Nuance Biotechnology plan to support them?
Dr. Nemanja Todorovic: “About 80% of India’s dairy farmers operate at a small scale. We aim to reach them through a three-pronged strategy:
1. Strengthening our distribution network to enhance accessibility.
2. Focusing on large dairy operations that drive significant market influence.
3. Leveraging veterinary shops as a direct channel for small-scale farmers, a model that has succeeded in similar markets.”

In conclusion, Nuance Biotech is positioning itself as a pioneering force in the feed additives sector, committed to innovation, sustainability and farmer education. As they expand their presence in India and beyond, their solutions promise to enhance efficiency, profitability and resilience in the livestock industry.

With over 150 curated sessions led by 300 industry experts, VIV Asia 2025 provides an unparalleled platform for knowledge-building and networking

Bangkok, Thailand – VIV Asia 2025, the premier international trade show for the animal protein production and processing industry is set to return this year in co-location with Meat Pro Asia and Horti Agri Next (HAN) Asia, with an expanded focus on sustainable solutions. This year’s edition will feature a series of high-level seminars that will address pressing challenges in modern livestock production, including disease prevention, regenerative agriculture, and biosecurity. These seminars will provide a platform for in-depth discussions, knowledge-sharing, and collaboration among industry professionals, all with the shared goal of shaping the future of animal farming.

150 seminars, 300 industry experts

With over 150 curated sessions led by 300 industry experts, a major emphasis of VIV Asia 2025 will be on disease prevention and biosecurity, where speakers will present cutting-edge strategies for controlling infectious diseases, mitigating risks, and enhancing farm biosecurity to ensure resilient livestock production. The seminars will offer insights into the latest scientific developments, policy frameworks, and technological innovations designed to protect animal health and minimize the risk of disease outbreaks.

Another key focus will be on regenerative agriculture within animal farming, with thought leaders exploring sustainable farming practices that enhance soil health, foster biodiversity, and optimize resource efficiency. Discussions will highlight the economic and environmental benefits of regenerative approaches, along with real-world case studies that demonstrate their effectiveness.

Smart tech and alternative protein

The role of smart technologies and precision farming in advancing livestock management will also take center stage. Industry leaders will delve into the transformative impact of artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things (IoT), and automation in improving productivity, optimizing resource use, and reducing environmental impact. Attendees will gain valuable insights into how these innovations can be integrated into existing farming systems to drive efficiency and sustainability.

Feed innovation and alternative protein sources will be another critical topic, with a focus on the latest developments in animal nutrition. Experts will examine alternative feed sources that not only enhance sustainability but also improve animal health and productivity. The discussion will cover advances in feed formulation, nutrient efficiency, and novel protein alternatives.

Conference highlights to watch out for

Among the sessions lined up at VIV Asia 2025, attendees can watch out for these key conferences and plan their schedules accordingly to avoid missing any of the sessions on high demand: Aquatic Conference, AgriBITs, the 1st World Native Poultry Conference, Sustainable Farming Practices and Animal Health: A Pathway to Achieving Agricultural Climate Mitigation, Functional Feed Innovation and Testing for Aquaculture 2025 (FITA 2025): Shrimp Digestive Health, Shaping the Future of Local Dairy Markets, Biotechnology Innovation for Health Promotion and Sustainability Improvement in Animal Farming, and Smart Insect-Driven Feed Solutions for Sustainable Agriculture, among many others! More details regarding the specific locations, dates, and times can be found on the VIV Asia website under the Conference Program section.

All in all, VIV Asia 2025 offers attendees the opportunity to engage with global experts, network with industry leaders, and gain firsthand exposure to groundbreaking technological advancements aimed at revolutionizing the animal protein production sector.

Birgit Horn, Managing Director at VNU Europe shares, “VIV Asia 2025 represents a critical opportunity for industry stakeholders to access the latest knowledge, exchange ideas, and collaborate on innovative solutions that will shape the future of animal farming. These high-level seminars and conferences will provide an unparalleled platform for discussing the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable and resilient industry.”

Don’t miss VIV Asia, Meat Pro Asia, and Horti Agri Next Asia 2025 from March 12–14, 2025, at IMPACT, Bangkok, Thailand! Onsite registration costs €15 or THB 600.

Register online for **Free Admission** before March 11, 2025 at: www.vivasia.nl / www.meatpro-asia.com / www.hortiagrinext-asia.com

About VIV worldwide | VIV worldwide is the business network linking professionals from Feed to Food, offering boundless opportunities to the animal protein supply chain players. VIV worldwide developed with dedication a network through 40 years of experience and interactions with the industry, becoming today the leading platform in and for some of the most promising markets of the world. Visit www.viv.net.

About Horti Agri Next Asia (HAN Asia) | HAN Asia is the Horti Agri Next hub edition tailored specifically for the Asian market, showcasing the latest in horticultural food production, landscaping, controlled environment practices, environmental conservation, and agriculture. HAN Asia brings together industry professionals and experts from across Asia and around the world. Join us at HAN Asia to explore the forefront of the Asian horticultural and agricultural industries. For more details, please visit the official website at www.hortiagrinext.com .

About Meat Pro Asia | Meat Pro Asia is a professional trading platform for food processing machinery and packaging technologies. Organised alongside with VIV Asia, the fairs provide the complete supply chain from feed to food to processing and packaging and sales, attracting then entire spectrum of food technology trade buyers in ASEAN region. For more information, please visit the official website at www.meatpro-asia.com

About VNU Group | VNU Group is a globally operating exhibition company with offices in Utrecht (VNU Europe) and Bangkok (VNU Asia Pacific). VNU Group is part of the Royal Dutch Jaarbeurs and represents its international exhibition business outside of the Netherlands. Each VNU office runs a portfolio of exhibition and conference brands with professional expertise on specific markets and industries. The Agri-food exhibition portfolio is a core business in both VNU regional offices. Other VNU Group main event sectors include Tech, Lifestyle, Construction, Lifesciences, Biotech, and more.

About VNU Europe | VNU Europe is a subsidiary company of Royal Dutch Jaarbeurs with its base in Utrecht, at the heart of the Netherlands and only 30 minutes from Amsterdam. The VNU Europe office is located within the extensive Jaarbeurs complex. The international team of VNU Europe is wholly involved in the agrifood sector, focusing on the organization of worldwide industry events such as VIV and Horti Agri Next. For more information, visit www.vnueurope.com

About VNU Asia Pacific | VNU Asia Pacific is part of VNU Group, a globally operating exhibition company with offices in Utrecht and Bangkok and consolidates the international exhibition business of Royal Dutch Jaarbeurs. In Southeast Asia, Jaarbeurs formed a Joint Venture with TCC Group, a leading corporate conglomerate in the fast-growing region. From its business hub located in Bangkok, VNU Asia Pacific covers all key exhibition markets in South East Asia. VNU Asia Pacific has a constantly expanding portfolio with currently 19 trade shows and event formats both online and face-to-face platforms including brands from the AgriTech, Animal Husbandry, Animal Companion, Food, Life Sciences, Biotechnology, 5G and IoT and Disaster Resilience industries. For more information, visit www.vnuasiapacific.com

The International Production & Processing Expo (IPPE) 2025 collaboration of three trade shows, International Feed Expo International Poultry Expo and International Meat Expo, organised at Georgia World Congress Center, Atlanta, USA from January 28-30, 2025, was another remarkable edition, drawing attendees from more than 130 countries. IPPE 2025 expo reaffirmed its position as world’s largest annual poultry & egg, meat & animal food industry event. IPPE 2025 hosted more than 1,300 exhibitors across 5,98,000 square feet of exhibit space, showcasing the latest technological advancements, services, and products focused on poultry.

International participation was significant, with strong representation from Latin America, Canada, Europe and Southeast Asia and South Asia. Attendees explored cutting-edge poultry processing equipment, automated systems, health and nutrition products and advanced feed solutions, positioning the event as the premier destination for poultry innovations. Networking & Education Poultry industry professionals connected through various activities, including the on-floor Discovery Zone interactions and Tech Talks sessions. IPPE fostered vital business collaborations, contract signing and strategic alliances, contributing to long-term industry growth. Attendees benefited from more than 80 learning sessions, covering key topics such as poultry health, sustainability, artificial intelligence, plant operations and industry innovations.

USSEC Showcases U.S. Soy’s Role in Global Feed and Food Solutions
The U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC) played an important role at IPPE 2025 organised at Georgia World Congress Center, Atlanta, USA from January 28-30, 2025, underscoring its extensive global reach and commitment to advancing animal nutrition through U.S. soy. Operating in over 80 countries across key regions, including Northeast Asia, Europe, South Asia, Sub-Saharan Africa, Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and North America, USSEC showcasing its leadership in promoting sustainable soy-based solutions for the poultry, dairy and aquaculture sectors.

At its dedicated booth, USSEC Board Members and Senior Management had been engaged actively with the trade visitors, offering insights into the latest industry trends and demonstrating how U.S. Soy contributes to improving global livestock feed systems. The team emphasized the vital role of soy as a major component of livestock feed, supplying essential protein and nutrients that enhance animal health and productivity. Through strategic dialogues and collaborative sessions, USSEC highlighted its initiatives aimed at fostering international trade, strengthening value chains, and supporting food security. The organization’s experts shared real-world success stories from various regions, illustrating how partnerships with industry players drive advancements in feed technology, animal nutrition and sustainability.

The Soy Excellence Center (SEC), an initiative by USSEC, which offers basic certificate courses in Poultry, Feed Milling, Aquaculture, and Soy Food & Beverage to enhance industry expertise and sustainability was also highlighted at USSEC booth. These courses equip professionals with essential knowledge on feed formulations, efficient milling practices, aquaculture advancements and soy-based food innovations. Through expert-led training and interactive learning, SEC empowers emerging markets with technical skills that drive productivity and food security. By fostering a skilled workforce and promoting best practices, SEC strengthens the global soy value chain, reinforcing USSEC’s commitment to industry growth and sustainability.

Interactions at the USSEC booth provided attendees with valuable information on U.S. soy’s applications in modern feed formulations. By connecting global stakeholders, USSEC reaffirmed its commitment to creating a resilient and sustainable global food supply chain powered by U.S. Soy. Jim Sutter, CEO, USSEC, reinforced the industry’s dedication to innovation and sustainability, emphasizing the role of U.S. Soy in meeting global food and feed demands.

Indian Equipment Manufacturing Companies Shine at IPPE 2025

Indian poultry equipment manufacturers have demonstrated remarkable potential in the global market, driven by their commitment to quality and cost-effectiveness – A few Leading Indian Equipment manufacturers, Gartech Equipments Pvt. Ltd and Dhumal Industries participated in IPPE 2025 Expo showcased their cutting-edge innovations tailored for modern poultry operations. The Indian Poultry Equipment Manufacturers robust engineering solutions and competitive pricing have positioned them as trusted partners for international poultry producers. The growing presence of Indian equipment manufacturers at prominent global exhibitions like IPPE Expo, USA and in other European and South American Countries, underscores their capability to deliver world-class products, strengthening India’s reputation in the global poultry industry.

Indian Herbal and Pharmaceutical Companies Make an Impact at IPPE 2025

Indian pharmaceutical companies specializing in herbal and enzyme-based solutions are making significant strides in the international market – Some of major Indian Companies, Nurture Technology Pvt. Ltd., Lumis Biotech, Natural Remedies Private Limited, PVS Group of Companies, SK Biobiz Pvt. Ltd, Amorevet, Camlin Fine Sciences (CFS), Vinayak Ingredients Pvt. Ltd. participated at IPPE-2025. Through their booth, these Indian companies actively highlighted their advancements in natural feed additives, Herbal and poultry health products to delegates visiting IPPE Expo from around the Globe. By addressing the rising demand for sustainable and safe animal nutrition, these companies are successfully tapping into global opportunities.

Their efforts to combine traditional herbal knowledge with modern scientific innovations have bolstered India’s role as a key exporter in the animal health and feed supplement sector in international markets.

Technical presentations explored innovative solutions such as machine learning applications in chicken performance data and technology-driven customer support. IPPE 2025 provided an excellent platform for fostering industry collaboration and sustainable poultry breeding solutions. Highlighted educational programs included: International Poultry Scientific Forum, presentations on leading research on avian health, processing and nutrition, providing actionable insights for advancing poultry production.

Looking Ahead
With overwhelming positive feedback from participants and exhibitors, IPPE continues to be a vital platform for business growth, industry collaboration, and innovation. Organized by the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association, the American Feed Industry Association and the North American Meat Institute, IPPE sets new benchmarks in industry advancement.

As the poultry and animal food sectors evolve, IPPE remains at the forefront of shaping the future, driving technological progress, and strengthening global partnerships. The industry looks forward to another successful edition in Atlanta at the Georgia World Congress Center for the IPPE-2026, January 27 – 29, 2026.

ZAGRO SINGAPORE Expands Manufacturing with New Facility in India

ZAGRO Singapore, along with its subsidiary PL Agro Technologies Ltd is seen to be bringing a revolution in animal nutrition. PL Agro Technologies Ltd. India, located in Chennai was acquired by ZAGRO Singapore in 2023.

ZAGRO Singapore, a renowned leader in animal health and nutrition, is reinforcing its commitment to providing innovative and high-quality solutions across the global animal nutrition market. Through its strategic acquisition of PL Agro Technologies Ltd. in 2023, ZAGRO has solidified its presence in India, where it now operates a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Chennai, further enhancing its pan India footprint and product offerings.

The partnership between ZAGRO Singapore and PL Agro Technologies Ltd. marks a pivotal moment in the company’s journey, enabling it to expand its capacity for production while ensuring that the products are locally relevant and cost-effective for the Indian and global markets. At the heart of this expansion is the PL Agro facility, which now serves as the dedicated production hub for a comprehensive range of animal nutrition products designed to support the poultry industry and other animal health sectors.

The facility manufactures a variety of important products, including mineral premixes (both organic and inorganic), mycotoxin binders, Halquinol, oral liquids, Tiamulin 80% and customized products. These offerings are crafted to meet the diverse and evolving needs of the industry, providing solutions that not only enhance animal health but also ensure performance consistency and cost-efficiency.

ZAGRO Singapore’s decision to produce at the PL Agro facility is rooted in its unwavering confidence in the operational excellence of the plant, which boasts cutting-edge manufacturing capabilities and world-class quality control measures. The strategic importance of this facility is amplified by its ability to meet the increasing demand for high-quality animal nutrition solutions, all while maintaining local production standards and ensuring compliance with international regulations.
ZAGRO remains steadfast in its commitment to its core philosophy: “Global Technology, Local production and effective Solutions.” This guiding principle drives the company to deliver high-quality products tailored to local needs while adhering to global standards. Through sustainable practices and innovation, ZAGRO focuses on building long-term, reliable relationships with customers, distributors, and industry stakeholders across the globe.

The establishment of the PL Agro facility as the main production hub underscores ZAGRO’s long-term vision for India as a strategic market and a vital part of its global operations. With this move, Zagro aims to increase its market penetration, reduce product lead times, and enhance its responsiveness to customer needs.

Furthermore, ZAGRO Singapore is keen on engaging more directly with the poultry and animal health industries. The company’s goal for 2025 is to further strengthen its connections with poultry farmers, veterinarians, feed millers, and other industry professionals throughout India. This initiative aims to create stronger bonds, understand customer demands better, and offer even more tailored solutions.
For further inquiries or more detailed information, please contact:

Mr. Manas Mitra
Head of Business Operations, Zagro India
Email: manas.mitra@zagro.com

For Technical Assistance / Product Information
Mr. Raja Vadivel
R&D Project Manager, Zagro Singapore
Email: raja.vadivel@zagro.com

Visit our company websites for more information about us.
www.plagro.in
www.zagro.com

Grading in poultry breeding is the process sorting birds into categories based on their body weights. Grading is the process of sorting individual birds into categories based on bodyweight (super light, light, average, heavy) so that birds within respective categories can be managed back to standard. Grading is the process of shorting of all individual birds in a flock (both Male & Female separately) into 3 sub-populations based on body weights (physiological state) so that each group can be managed back to the standard to have perfect uniformity in the whole flock at the point of Lay (POL). A uniform flock is easier to manage than a variable one; birds in similar physiological stale will respond more similarly to managemental factors.

Background of Grading
There is always a natural variation in a flock, even at day old. At placement, the chick body weight in a flock should have minimum variation. As chicks grow, the variation in the flock increases further due to difference of response of individual birds to factors like vaccination, disease, differing competitiveness of feed, etc. The increased variation reduces overall flock performance and makes the flock management much more difficult.

Understanding the Principles of Grading
Grading is a systematic process that adheres to well-defined principles. It’s a great way to improve the uniformity of a flock!

With grading, the flock is separated, and groups of smaller and bigger birds are formed to improve the total flock uniformity. The grading principles serve as guidelines to ensure consistency, and fairness while classifying birds. The primary principles of grading are the following:

1. Objectivity: Grading should be based on measurable and observable characteristics, minimizing subjective judgments.
2. Traceability: Detailed records should be maintained to track the grading process and facilitate future analysis.
3. Continuous Improvement: Grading practices should be regularly reviewed and updated to incorporate advancements in breeding management.

Purpose
Grading improves uniformity in a flock by separating birds into groups based on their weight so that they can be managed back to the standard.

Benefits
A uniform flock is easier to manage because birds in similar physiological states respond similarly to management.

When to grade
Grading is usually done when the flock is 7–14 days old, and then again at 4, 8, and 12 weeks of age. It’s recommended to grade as soon as possible so that the birds can recover from growth retardation.

How to grade
To grade, you can:
1. Weigh a minimum of 2% of the flock to calculate the average weight and variation in body weight.
• Measure the variation in body weight using the coefficient of variation (CV%) or uniformity (%).
• Separate the birds into categories based on their weight.
• Manage each group to bring them back to the standard weight.

Grading Procedure
Depending on the uniformity 3 to 4 sub-populations may be made; Heavy, Medium, Light & Super light (if necessary). Some breeder houses have fixed pen or partitions and some houses has adjustable partitions; in both cases at least one pen shall be left empty during chick placement for Grading operation. It is better to have adjustable Partition and divide the whole house in 4 parts for Female & 4 parts for Male; with 2 parts each for medium size group (usually over 65% of total population), One part each for Heavy & Light Weight group for both Male & Female. Arrange Brooding in one part each for Male & female separately. Start grading on 8th day itself and shift them in different pen, keepingthe lighter group at the entry side. With advancing age & body weight, arrange 100% grading at the end of 4, 8 & 12 weeks and give floor space accordingly in the respective pen. In case of fixed pen, calculate the floor space, no of feeder & drinker as per maximum no of birds to place after grading. Similarly, in case of adjustable pen adjust the size as per no of birds to be housed along with sufficient no of feeder & drinkers. If stocking density in a pen is not adjusted with floor space, feeder & drinker space, then grading will cause more problem.

Variation in a flock can be measured by 2 different ways:
1. Coefficient of Variation (CV%) – this measured the variations of body weight within the flock, the flock with lower CV’s is a less variable flock.
2. Uniformity% – this measures the evenness of body weights within a flock, the higher the uniformity the less variable the flock is.

Key Issues during Grading:
• Start Grading of Male & Female simultaneously @ 2nd Week or 29th day.
• A successful Grading should minimize the variability in graded flock than the original flock with the CV% shall be around 8 and Uniformity above 80%.
• Each sub-population should be re-weighted & counted to confirm the Av Body Wt and CV%/ Uniformity so that projected (re-scheduled) target body weights & Feeding rates can be determined.
• Inaccurate bird counting will lead to incorrect quantity of Feed, which invite future problem
• Each sup-population should have own dedicated feeding system. Otherwise, supplementary feeding must allow even distribution of feed & adequate feeding space per bird.
• Ensure the stocking density, feeding & drinking space are consistent as per guidelines after grading; specially for the adjustable size pen.

Flock Management after Grading:
• Following grading, the flock need to be managed to achieve targeted body weight in graded group in uniform & coordinated manner. Post grading management to maintain uniformity within graded pen is more important than the grading itself. The most important issue is the post grading management results in the birds converging to a common target body weight at Transfer to laying house.
• Post Grading Feed Quantity should be adjusted to individual pen and graded birds body weights to bring each sub-population gradually back to the target line.

Challenges for Grading
• Grading is often seen as a herculean task. Add to that the misconception that it involves too much work for a very little return, and there are numerous reasons why farm owners do not want to grade their flock.
• Increased costs due to more labor.
• Stressful for birds to move between the pens.
• Feeder & drinker configurations. Managing feed times.

Take Home Message
• Feed level must be recalculated on a weekly basis calculating for changes in liveability.
• Feed recalculation twice a week gives excellent results specially for Light weight group where higher increase level is required.
• Feed calculation based on individual pen birds Av Body Wt & bird numbers
• Feed level should never be reduced
• Feed level for Light Wt group should remain same first week post grading owing to the fact that reduced competition from heavier birds will give a good amount extra feed to all birds.
• Smaller for Heavy Wt Bird group
• Greater for Lighter Wt Bird group
• Standard for Medium Wt bird group
Never hold feed increment for any group for more than 2 weeks

Post Grading: Continuous Improvement
Flock grading is an ongoing process that requires regular review and refinement. Post-grading activities are essential for continuous improvement and sustained breeding success.

By mastering flock grading and adhering to best practices, poultry breeders can achieve optimal flock management, genetic progress, and long-term profitability in their breeding operations.

With the expansion of the poultry industry, farm owners have looked further in detail about ways to improve the hatching eggs and chick output. With increased research, what we know is that one certain way of increasing the overall performance is by maintaining flock uniformity.

A well-graded flock is bound to be more predictable, easier to manage, and more profitable. Combine this with the extensive features that seasoned poultry management software offers, and farm owners will start managing a flock with much greater production potential.

Dr Jeevan Sonawane | Director, Novelvet Farmsolutions

India is one of the fastest growing countries in terms of population, economy, infrastructure, information technology and other segments, yet grappling with persistent challenges like poverty, malnutrition, and nutritional insecurity. Among these, protein malnutrition is a silent crisis affecting millions. Despite being the world’s second-most populous country, over 80% of Indians fail to meet their daily protein requirements. While 75% of the population identifies as non-vegetarian, most consume meat only occasionally—on weekends, festivals, or special occasions. A survey by IMRB revealed that 73% of Indians are protein deficient, and a staggering 93% are unaware of their daily protein needs.

The misconception that protein is essential only for bodybuilders and athletes has left the general population unaware of its fundamental role in overall health. This lack of awareness has far-reaching consequences for individuals and the nation.

How Serious Is Protein Malnutrition in India?
Protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) is a significant public health issue in India, with devastating effects on children and adults alike:
– Global Hunger Index: India ranks 101 out of 116 countries.
– Undernourished Population: India has the highest number of undernourished people globally.
– Child Malnutrition: 35% of children under five are malnourished, and 48% suffer from stunted growth.
– Infant Mortality: 33 of every 1,000 children born in India die before their first birthday.
– Anaemia: 68% of children and 66% of women are anaemic.
– Protein Deficiency: 73% of Indians lack adequate protein intake.

Double Burden: Alongside malnutrition, obesity and non-communicable diseases like diabetes and heart disease are rising due to poor dietary habits.

How Much Protein Are Indians Eating?
The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) recommends 0.8 to 1 gram of protein per kilogram of body weight daily, but the average Indian consumes only 0.6 grams per kilogram. Globally, average protein consumption stands at 68 grams per day, while India lags behind at 47 grams per day.

A survey across 16 Indian cities found that 85% of people believe protein causes weight gain, highlighting the widespread misinformation. Moreover, cereals, which are poor protein sources, dominate Indian diets, contributing 60% of protein intake. Pulses, legumes, meat, and poultry, the richer sources of protein, account for only 11% of dietary energy.

Protein deficiency

Why Are Indians Protein Deficient?
Several factors contribute to protein deficiency in India:
1. Cereal-Dominant Diets: Poor digestibility and incomplete amino acid profiles of cereals make them inadequate protein sources.
2. Shift in Food Habits: Increased consumption of fast foods and processed foods has reduced dietary quality.
3. Poverty and Food Insecurity: Many families cannot afford protein-rich foods.
4. Social Misconceptions: Myths about certain food categories lead to reduced protein intake.
5. Lack of Awareness: Misinformation and myths, especially among women who are key decision-makers in household nutrition, exacerbate the problem.
6. Inadequate Infant Feeding Practices: Poor early nutrition has lifelong consequences.

The Impact of Protein Deficiency
Protein is vital for growth, development, immunity, and repair. Its deficiency has severe consequences:
– For Children: Stunted growth, poor cognitive development, and reduced school performance.
– For Adults: Loss of muscle mass, impaired metabolism, and increased susceptibility to illnesses.
– For the Economy: Reduced productivity, poorer educational outcomes, and long-term economic losses.

How to Mitigate Protein Malnutrition in India
The Indian government has launched programs like the Public Distribution System (PDS), Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS), and mid-day meals. However, these largely focus on cereals. To combat protein malnutrition effectively, we need:
1. Increased Awareness: Massive campaigns to educate the public on protein’s importance and daily requirements.
2. Inclusion of Protein-Rich Foods: Adding affordable protein sources like eggs, milk, and chicken to government nutrition programs like mid-day meal in schools
3. Affordable Protein: Subsidizing protein-rich foods to make them accessible to all.
4. Dietary Education: Promoting balanced diets that include pulses, legumes, and animal proteins.
5. Focused Intervention: Prioritizing nutrition in the first 1,000 days of life, from conception to a child’s second birthday.

How Eggs and Chicken Can Help
Eggs and chicken are among the most affordable and accessible protein sources, offering immense potential to combat malnutrition:
1. Abundance: India is the world’s third-largest egg producer and fourth-largest chicken producer.
2. Complete Protein: These are high-quality protein sources containing essential amino acids not found in many plant-based foods.
3. Nutritional Powerhouses: Eggs are rich in vitamins, minerals, and good fats, while chicken supports muscle strength, immunity, and stress relief.
4. Versatility and Affordability: Easy to prepare, eggs and chicken can fit into any meal plan.

Need for Collective Action
To overcome protein malnutrition, we must act together. Poultry producers, government agencies, social influencers, medical practitioners, and organizations like NECC, Vets in Poultry, PFI, CLFMA, INFAH, IPEMA, ICMR, IMA and NIN must join hands. By promoting chicken and eggs through awareness campaigns, partnerships with health organizations, and inclusion in nutrition programs, we can:
– Educate Consumers: Bust myths and promote protein-rich diets.
– Drive Demand: Inspire families to make eggs and chicken regular dietary staples.
– Strengthen Programs: Enhance government initiatives with animal protein sources.

Fighting protein malnutrition is not just a health issue; it is a mission to secure India’s future. Let’s ensure every child has the opportunity to grow, thrive, and contribute to a healthier, stronger nation. Together, we can make protein malnutrition a challenge of the past.