The two days PFI 37th AGM witnessed the presence of over 950 plus participants from across India and 111 sponsoring companies, reflecting the strength and unity of India’s poultry community. The AGM began with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp, symbolizing growth, progress and prosperity in the poultry sector.

Mr. Ranpal Dhanda, President, Poultry Federation of India, welcomed all participants, expressing heartfelt gratitude to all sponsoring companies for their valuable support in making this 37th AGM a grand success with their presence. PFI President said this PFI AGM is an occasion where the entire country’s poultry sector has gathered on a single platform to connect, share experiences and deliberate on the future course of action. The entire value chain of the poultry sector is present on this platform—ranging from farmers, breeders, feed millers, and integrators to medicine and equipment companies, doctors, scientists, and associations. And therein lies PFI’s greatest strength. Mr. Dhanda added we must place equal emphasis on technology, scientific knowledge, disease management, feed quality, genetics, biosecurity, and modern farming practices. Our aim is to ensure that the knowledge possessed by scientists and experts does not remain confined to conferences and laboratories; the benefits of research must reach the farm level. In this context, VIV Select India 2026 has been a significant milestone for us. Mr. Ranpal Dhanda further said India is a young nation today, and one of our greatest challenges is delivering affordable, high-quality nutrition to as many people as possible. Eggs and chicken play a vital role in this. For us, these are not merely poultry sector products; they are crucial components of nutritional and protein security. Therefore, in the future, PFI will vigorously advance the “Mission Protein India” initiative. We will strive to disseminate accurate, scientific information regarding the nutritional benefits of eggs and chicken to the public through awareness programs, social media, digital platforms, and other communication channels. Our objective is to address the misconceptions and misinformation surrounding poultry products in the country by presenting facts and scientific evidence. Today, we have many young professionals, entrepreneurs, veterinarians, and next-generation poultry farmers among us. PFI will strive to bring the youth into the fold of the organization, giving them an opportunity to voice their views and play a role in the future leadership of the sector. After all, the poultry sector of the next 10–20 years will be in the hands of today’s youth.

The inaugural address was followed by the Annual Report presented by
Mr. Ravinder Singh Sandhu, Secretary, who highlighted following activities being done by PFI in last one year.

Regarding the Bird Flu Vaccine Policy: Bird Flu has been a major concern for farmers. PFI has consistently raised the issue of LPAI and HPAI vaccines with the government. As you all know, the PFI team worked hard to secure permission for the LPAI vaccine and maintained continuous coordination with the Department of Animal Husbandry (Government of India) regarding the HPAI vaccine. PFI with support from other national poultry associations have achieved significant success in this regard; now, the HPAI vaccine can be manufactured in India and legally imported.

Efforts to ensure farmers can easily obtain the Pollution Board NOC: To address this, the PFI team held meetings with the Haryana government, advocating for the exclusion of the poultry sector from the ‘industry’ category regarding Pollution Board NOCs. We proposed a separate policy for poultry NOCs that requires minimal documentation. PFI Team is hopeful that the Haryana government will soon issue a notification on this matter.

Regarding Market Committee fees for maize and pearl millet (bajra) –Taking this issue seriously, the PFI team held a meeting with the Haryana government. This meeting took place under the chairmanship of our senior colleague and Honorable Cabinet Minister, Shri Mahipal Dhanda Ji, and was attended by the Chief Secretary of Haryana and senior officials from the Mandi Board; other poultry associations also participated alongside the PFI team.

Initiative for biogas plant subsidies for breeder and layer farming – Poultry waste poses a major challenge for our fellow farmers. The cost of installing biogas plants to dispose of this waste is very high; consequently, our team has voiced the farmers’ concerns to the Government of India, specifically requesting a subsidy of ₹1 crore for biogas plants.

Regarding rising Soya DOC prices – Our team conducted a survey to identify the underlying causes and discovered that soya stocks were being hoarded.
In response, we wrote to the PMO and the relevant ministry, urging them to impose an upper limit on soya stockpiling. This intervention halted the rise in soybean prices; while we had anticipated a sharp price surge due to hoarding, the situation was successfully brought under control.

Regarding maize quality and production – Thanks to the sustained efforts of the PFI team, we have observed a significant increase in maize production in the North this year compared to previous years. Through various maize-focused seminars, we have been consistently raising awareness among farmers about maize quality to ensure there is no shortage in the future, given the rising demand.

PFI purchases a plot for a laboratory – 400-square-yard commercial plot has been purchased in Panipat for the PFI laboratory. The project report is ready, and work is set to commence shortly. The laboratory will be completed soon, providing the poultry sector with enhanced technological support. Its primary objective is to offer farmers and the entire poultry sector superior technical support, accurate disease identification, and scientific information.

VIV Select India Exhibition- PFI has enabled even small-scale farmers to experience an international exhibition. Our team brought in thousands of farmers from across the country to provide them with insights into poultry-related technologies, ensuring that advanced technology reaches even the smallest of farmers. Thanks to everyone’s contribution, this exhibition was a resounding success. While we had initially planned to hold this event biennially, given its success and with your continued support, it will now be organized annually—with the next edition scheduled for April 21–23, 2027, at the Yashobhoomi Convention Centre.

Later the Financial Report was presented by Mr. Rahul Khatri, Treasurer, which was unanimously approved by all the PFI Members.

Mr. Sanjeev Gupta, Vice President (HQ) extended Vote of Thanks. Mr. Gupta extended special thanks to all PFI Executive Committee Members, Industry Leaders, Technical Speakers, Delegates Media partners and the entire management team for their dedicated efforts and teamwork.

Technical & Business Sessions – The day featured insightful presentations by leading industry experts and companies: Mr. Uday Singh Bayas, President, Indian Poultry Equipment Manufacturers Association (IPEMA) and Poultry India invited all the delegates present at PFI AGM to attend Poultry India Exhibition being organised at HITEX, Hyderabad on November 25-27, 2026. Later the sponsoring companies gave very interesting and education presentations. This was followed by several educating and informative technical presentations by Team Symbio, Dr. Ajeet Bishnoi, Dr. Harish & Dr. Rahul.

Dr. Rakesh Gupta, General Managet – Technical, Venkateshwara Hatcheries (VH Group) gave very impressive presentation on “Management of Immunosuppression in Broilers” which was very much appreciated by the delegates. There was good interaction after the presentation and Dr. Rakesh Gupta satisfactorily replied to all the questions.

Dr. Vijay Anand, Soy Excellence Center (SEC) India Center Lead, presentation on “Soy as a Continuing Foundation for the Feed Industry” was another engaging segment. The clarity of thoughts and practical approach provided the delegates with several valuable takeaways.

This was followed by presentation of certificates by PFI Core Team to the four toppers of Soy Excellence Center course, a good initiative by US Soybean Export Council.

A high-level panel discussion on “Indigenous Viral Strains for Poultry vaccines: Strengthening Disease Control Through India Specific Solutions” was there which was very well moderated by Dr. Nitin Vasantrao Kurkure and the distinguished panel included Dr. Premanshu Dandapat, Dr. NK Mahajan, Dr. Shirish Nigam, Dr. Sanjay Gavkare and Dr. Gowthaman. Press and Silver & Bronze category sponsors were felicitated for their continuous support, by presenting mementoes. Dr. Jeetendra Verma, Executive Committee Member, Poultry Federation of India, extended Vote of Thanks. The evening concluded with a musical program and cocktail dinner, offering networking opportunities and celebrating unity within the poultry fraternity.

The second day of the 37th Annual General Body Meeting of Poultry Federation of India continued with insightful policy sessions, dignitary addresses and recognition of excellence in the poultry sector.
The day began with welcome address by Mr. Ranpal Dhanda, President, Poultry Federation of India. He emphasised the Federation’s commitment to promoting scientific, profitable and sustainable poultry farming across India. The pace at which India’s poultry sector has grown over the last few decades is truly remarkable. Today, our country ranks among the world’s leading producers of eggs and chicken. According to the ICAR, the poultry sector is making a significant contribution to India’s food and nutritional security. We need to consider Where will India’s poultry sector be in the next ten years? And an even more important question is Are we prepared today for the challenges of the coming decade?

PFI President said “Poultry feed security is an essential part of India’s protein security.” If quality feed is not available at competitive prices, we will be unable to simultaneously achieve farmer profitability, affordable protein for consumers, and global competitiveness for the industry. Today, our scientists have made seeds available that allow us to achieve yields of up to 10–11 tonnes per hectare. I say this based on my own practical experience. For the past three years, I have been cultivating maize on approximately 20 acres, and I am achieving yields of up to 10–11 tonnes per hectare. However, looking at the country as a whole, the average maize productivity here currently stands at only about 3–4 tonnes per hectare. This implies that while we possess quality seeds and scientists have developed superior varieties, the major challenge lies in our inability to deliver these high-quality seeds to every farmer in sufficient quantities. Therefore, our future focus must be on ensuring that the high-quality, high-yield hybrid seeds available to us reach every farm and every farmer. These seeds should be made available at reasonable and subsidized rates so that small and medium-scale farmers can also utilize them.

Mr. Ranpal Dhanda said Our second priority is to transform disease surveillance into an “Early Warning System.” If animal feed represents our first challenge, disease management is our second major hurdle. Modern poultry farming is highly intensive and interconnected. A disease outbreak is not merely a problem for a single farm; it can become an issue for the entire cluster. Therefore, I propose the creation of a National Poultry Disease Surveillance Grid. We should develop an integrated system connecting — Farm → Veterinarian → District Laboratory → State Laboratory → National Reference Laboratory —through a digital network.

Mr. Dhanda added Our third priority is: Vaccination tailored to Indian conditions. India should become a leader in innovation not just a market in the field of poultry vaccines. When Indian science and Indian industry collaborate, Indian solutions can be developed for Indian challenges. Therefore, we urge that the “Indigenous Strain-Based Vaccine Development Programme” be further strengthened. We need to establish a framework wherein ICAR, Veterinary Universities, the Government, the Vaccine Industry, and the Poultry Industry collaborate to conduct research on priority disease.
This was followed by launch of Mission Protein India and its mascot by the Honourable Chief Guest Shri Mahipal Dhanda, Minister of Education, Government of Haryana, along with all the dignitaries on the dias.

Mission Protein India is an initiative by PFI in promoting protein awareness by launching an Instagram page titled “Mission Protein India.” This initiative will provide the general public with information regarding the nutritional value of protein. Our goal is to ensure that accurate, scientific information reaches everyone, enabling people to understand the importance of better nutrition for their health and adopt it into their lifestyles.

Later Mr. Vijay Sardana, Advocate, Supreme Court of India & Techno-Legal Advisor, Poultry Federation of India gave Keynote address. National Poultry Export Mission – On behalf of Poultry Federation of India, it was proposed to Establish a National Poultry Export Mission 2035, with PFI, DAHD, APEDA, MoFPI, Commerce Ministry and relevant state governments working against annual milestones. The Proposed US$10 Billion Export Basket. India should move progressively from bulk shipments to specification-based shipments. The buyer should be able to specify: weight + cut + fat level + packaging + certification + microbiological standard + halal status + traceability. That is how a commodity becomes a differentiated export product. The objective should be to establish Indian processing companies as international suppliers.

Dr. Sunil Neelam, ICAR-Indian Institute of Maize Research gave interesting and highly appreciated presentation on “Strategy to Meet Maize Requirement for Poultry in Changing Scenarios”.

This was followed by address by Mr. Ashok Thakur, Guest of Honour and Director, National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India (NAFED). Mr. Thakur offered all the support to poultry sector as it’s creating lot of employment among young generation. His emphasis on strengthening protein security, feed security, farmer welfare and sustainable growth provided important direction for the sector.

The honourable Chief Guest, Shri Mahipal Dhanda, Minister of Education, Government of Haryana addressed the gathering which was truly insightful and inspiring. It was indeed an honour and privilege to hear his valuable thoughts and guidance. The clarity of his vision and his commitment to working closely with industry stakeholders were highly appreciated by all the delegates. The honourable Chief Guest concluded by saying together, let us take Indian Poultry to greater heights and contribute meaningfully to the vision of a Healthy, Prosperous and Viksit Bharat.

Mr. Ricky Thaper, Joint Secretary, delivered The Vote of Thanks by appreciating Hon’ble Chief Guest Shri Mahipal Dhanda Ji, Hon’ble Education Minister, Government of Haryana, and the Guest of Honours for graciously sparing their valuable time to join and bless the 37th AGM with their presence and extended deep appreciation to all 950 plus participants, 111 sponsoring companies, Speakers, Special Invites, Press and all PFI Executive Committee team for their contribution to making the two-day AGM a grand success.

Post lunch there were technical presentations by Mr. Anil Singh Tomar also Mr. Arvindra Singh. The Panel Discussion on “Beyond Maize and Soy-Alternative Feed Ingredients for Efficient and Cost-Effective Poultry Production”

was very nicely Moderatored by Dr. Tarun Shridhar and the panellist included Prof. Dr. PK Shukla, Dr. Ashok Kumar Pattanaik, Dr. Amit Das, Dr. Shiv Kumar Bhardwaj, Dr Nataraja Hulegondi and Dr. Ajay Deshpande. This was followed by the insightful addresses by leading voices from the poultry industry that added tremendous value to the AGM.

The poultry leader’s; Mr. Divya Gulati, Mr. Vasant Kumar, Mr. Madan Mohan Maity and Mr. Bahadur Ali’s perspectives highlighted the sector’s key challenges, emerging opportunities and the need for stronger collaboration among farmers, industry, scientists and policymakers.

Their valuable suggestions on the growth and future of India’s poultry sector reflected a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities before the industry. The industry leaders brought valuable on-ground experience and practical insights, particularly on feed security, cost competitiveness, farmer sustainability, innovation and the future growth of Indian poultry. Their forward-looking thoughts and constructive suggestions provided meaningful direction for building a more resilient, sustainable and globally competitive poultry industry in India. The rich exchange of ideas truly reflected the strength, unity and collective vision of the poultry fraternity.

Later there was mementoes presentations to Special Guests & Poultry Industry Associations and Super Platinum, Platinum, Diamond & Gold Sponsors. Mr. Rahul Khatri, Treasurer, extended Vote of Thanks. The 37th AGM of the Poultry Federation of India concluded on a highly positive and inspiring note, reaffirming our collective commitment to the growth, sustainability and long-term strength of India’s poultry sector. The discussions, insights and interactions throughout the AGM reinforced one clear message: a strong poultry industry is essential for India’s protein security, farmer prosperity and food security. The evening concluded with a musical program and cocktail dinner, offering networking opportunities and celebrating unity within the poultry fraternity.

Introduction

Why it matters in modern poultry production
– Rapid multiplication of Eimeria can produce substantial intestinal injury within a short period.
– Subclinical coccidiosis may reduce feed efficiency, growth and flock uniformity without dramatic clinical signs.
– High oocyst contamination of litter increases exposure and repeated infection pressure.
– Effective control requires attention to parasite biology, farm management and appropriate anticoccidial programmes.

Etiology
Seven major Eimeria species are recognized in chickens. E. acervulina and E. maxima are frequently encountered, while E. tenella is particularly pathogenic and associated with severe caecal disease and haemorrhage (Yaqub et al., 2023). Species differ in preferred intestinal sites, lesion patterns and pathogenicity.

Transmission
The principal route is faecal–oral transmission. Birds ingest sporulated oocysts from contaminated litter, feed, water, equipment or the environment. Moisture, oxygen and suitable temperature favour sporulation, allowing infective oocysts to accumulate and maintain the infection cycle (Pal et al., 2023).
Life Cycle of EIMERIA

Ingestion of sporulated oocysts → release of sporozoites → epithelial invasion → multiplication → gamete formation → oocyst formation → faecal shedding → environmental sporulation.

Clinical Signs
Severity depends on Eimeria species, infective dose, bird age, immunity and environmental management. Signs include reduced feed intake, depression, ruffled feathers, drooping wings, enteritis, diarrhoea or dysentery, poor growth and increased mortality in severe cases (Pal et al., 2023).
– Reduced body-weight gain and flock uniformity
– Poor feed conversion and production performance
– Diarrhoea or blood-stained droppings in severe infections
– Dehydration, weakness and depression
– Mortality when tissue damage and blood loss are extensive
Species-specific sites

Post-Mortem Lesions
Post-mortem examination helps identify likely Eimeria species and estimate the distribution and severity of intestinal damage. Lesion patterns should be interpreted with clinical findings, litter condition, performance data and, where appropriate, laboratory diagnosis (Pal et al., 2023; Yaqub et al., 2023).

Key lesion patterns

Prevention and Control
Effective control integrates anticoccidial programmes with litter management, hygiene, stocking-density control, ventilation and sound flock management. Continuous or inappropriate use of a single anticoccidial can contribute to reduced efficacy and resistance selection; rotation, shuttle programmes, combinations and vaccination are among approaches used for longer-term control (Usman et al., 2011; Chapman, 2017; Noack et al., 2019).

Anticoccidial programmes
– Rotation changes the active ingredient or mode of action between production cycles.
– Shuttle programmes use different anticoccidial strategies during different feed phases.
– Combination programmes can broaden anticoccidial activity and may help address reduced sensitivity when appropriately designed (Chapman & Rathinam, 2022).
– Vaccination can provide controlled exposure to selected Eimeria strains and support protective immunity.

Ionophore vs Chemical

Combination programmes
Combining compatible anticoccidial activities can broaden control and reduce dependence on a single mode of action. Programme selection should consider disease pressure, previous anticoccidial history, susceptibility patterns, compatibility and label requirements (Chapman & Rathinam, 2022).

STALLEN’S DUAL APPROACH TO COCCIDIOSIS CONTROL
Stallen South Asia offers a dual approach to coccidiosis management with Manacox Plus, bringing together ionophore and chemical anticoccidial activity in one formulation. This approach is designed to support practical, structured coccidiosis-control programmes while reducing dependence on a single mode of action.

MANACOX PLUS
Manacox Plus is a dual-active anticoccidial formulation combining an ionophore and a chemical anticoccidial. It contains Monensin Sodium 8% + Nicarbazin 8% for practical coccidiosis prevention programmes in broilers.
Key Product Points

WHY A DUAL APPROACH
Using monensin sodium together with nicarbazin brings ionophore and chemical anticoccidial activity into one formulation. This can fit structured prevention programmes where the objective is effective control without unnecessary reliance on a single mode of action. Use should follow the approved label and veterinary guidance.
Practical use
– Use within a planned farm coccidiosis-control programme.
– Maintain good litter quality, ventilation, stocking density and drinker management.
– Review anticoccidial history and flock response when planning future programmes.
– Follow approved dose, withdrawal period and compatibility instructions.

References are available on request.

India is now the world’s second-largest egg producer and among the largest producers of broiler meat. The sector turns over roughly ₹2.7 lakh crore a year, accounts for about 16 per cent of livestock output, and supports close to five million livelihoods.

For a business that began as a rural side activity, it has become one of the fastest-compounding parts of Indian agriculture — poultry’s share of agriculture and allied output has climbed from 2.9 per cent in 2011–12 to 5.0 per cent in 2023–24.

A record price season
The headline numbers are strong. On 5 September, the National Egg Coordination Committee’s average declared rate stood at ₹5.64 per egg across 34 markets, ranging from ₹4.90 in Hospet to ₹6.20 in Kolkata. Delhi was quoted at ₹6.00, Barwala at ₹5.43 and Ludhiana at ₹5.48. That is a comfortable band for layer farms that were selling below ₹5 through much of last year.

Broilers have swung harder. Farm-gate live bird prices in the Delhi region touched ₹140 a kilogram in July against roughly ₹90 a year earlier, while retail chicken moved from about ₹240 to nearly ₹300 a kilogram. Prices have since cooled as the monsoon supply cycle normalised — north Indian integrators were quoting live bird in the mid-₹90s per kilogram in late August — but the annual average is still tracking well above FY25. Care Edge Ratings estimates broiler realisations recovered about 5 per cent year on year in FY26, with live bird averaging ₹99 a kilogram in February–March 2026, more than 20 per cent above the bird-flu-depressed fourth quarter of Fy25.
Data Box 1 · Necc Egg Rates, 5 September 2026 (₹ Per Egg)

Why the margin is not where the price is
Feed accounts for 65 to 70 per cent of the cost of producing a broiler and roughly 68 to 70 per cent of the cost of producing an egg. In a business with that cost structure, a 15 per cent move in feed wipes out a 10 per cent move in output prices. That is precisely what has happened this year.

Compound poultry feed is now selling at about ₹4,400 a quintal against roughly ₹3,600 a year ago. Maize, the energy backbone of the ration, has moved from ₹18–19 a kilogram in April to ₹27–28 a kilogram. Soybean is ruling near ₹6,900 a quintal, well above the ₹5,708 minimum support price for the 2026–27 season.

Data Box 2 · The Cost Side

Two structural forces are behind the maize spike. First, ethanol. Grain-based distilleries have become a large, price-insensitive buyer of maize, and poultry feed mills are now bidding against a sector backed by a national blending mandate. Nearly 60 per cent of India’s maize output already goes to livestock, with poultry alone accounting for roughly 47 per cent of livestock maize consumption. Second, soybean meal. India is short by an estimated 1.5 million tonnes ahead of the new crop, and soybean acreage this kharif is down 4.5 per cent year on year at 10.6 million hectares.

“India is short an estimated 1.5 million tonnes of soybean meal before the new crop arrives — and soybean acreage this season is down 4.5 per cent.”

The policy knot: imports, GM corn and a farm lobby
The livestock and feed industry have asked the Centre to permit imports of about 1.5 million tonnes of soybean meal to bridge the gap. The soybean processing industry has opposed the move, arguing that domestic supply is adequate and that imports would discourage farmers from expanding oilseed acreage. It is a familiar standoff: the same protein deficit, the same two lobbies, a different year.

Poultry industry representatives have also pressed for approval of genetically modified corn, on the argument that higher-yielding maize would give both the feed and ethanol industries cheaper raw material. Under this year’s trade arrangement with the United States, India retained protection on corn and soybean — both predominantly GM crops there — while agreeing to allow imports of distillers’ dried grains and red sorghum for animal feed. That is a partial valve, not a solution. DDGS can replace part of the energy component of a ration; it cannot replace the protein that soybean meal supplies.

For business readers, the policy question is simple to state and hard to settle: India cannot simultaneously run an aggressive ethanol programme, protect oilseed growers from imports, and supply a poultry sector growing at 7 to 8 per cent a year with cheap feed. Something has to give, and so far, the adjustment has been borne by poultry farmers and, downstream, by consumers.

Volumes keep climbing anywayRemarkably, none of this has slowed production. India produced 149.11 billion eggs in 2024–25, second only to China, with commercial farms accounting for about 84.5 per cent of output and backyard poultry the rest. CareEdge estimates egg output at around 155 billion in FY26, rising to roughly 163 billion in FY27, with total meat production moving from about 11 million tonnes to 12 million tonnes over the same period.

Data Box 3 · Production Trajectory

Poultry India puts broiler production growth at 6 to 7 per cent a year for 2026–27, concentrated in Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Telangana, with the layer segment expanding more moderately on the back of productivity per bird, automation and value-added products. Andhra Pradesh alone accounts for 18.4 per cent of national egg output, Tamil Nadu 15.6 per cent and Telangana 13.0 per cent; the top five states together produce 64.4 per cent of India’s eggs.

Exports remain a modest but real business. India shipped poultry products worth USD 317.79 million in FY26, with the UAE, Oman, Maldives, Indonesia and Japan the leading destinations. Against a sector of roughly USD 31 billion, exports are still a rounding error — which is itself the opportunity, constrained mainly by disease-free-zone certification and processing infrastructure.

The demand headroom argument
The most persuasive case for investing in Indian poultry is not this year’s price cycle. It is the consumption gap. Per capita egg availability is around 100 to 105 eggs a year against the National Institute of Nutrition’s recommended 180. Per capita chicken consumption is roughly 5 kg a year against a global average close to 17.5 kg. Industry estimates suggest that a one-kilogram rise in per-person chicken consumption would add about 1.43 million tonnes of annual demand.

That headroom is being converted by three commercial forces rather than by policy: quick-service restaurants, organised retail, and the shift from live-bird wet markets to chilled and frozen products. Vertically integrated producers — who own the hatchery, the feed mill, the contract farms and increasingly the processing plant — have been the main beneficiaries, because integration is what buffers a business against the feed-price whiplash described above.
The value-of-output data makes the compounding visible. Poultry meat and eggs generated about ₹56,200 crore of output in 2011–12. By 2023–24 that figure was ₹2.67 lakh crore — a growth rate of 9.3 per cent a year for meat and 6.1 per cent for eggs, against 5.3 per cent for milk and 2.1 per cent for cereals.

“Poultry’s share of agriculture and allied output has risen from 2.9 per cent to 5.0 per cent in twelve years. Few segments of Indian agriculture have compounded faster.”

The recurring tax: disease and weather
Avian influenza remains the sector’s single largest tail risk, and 2026 has been an active year. India reported eleven H5N1 outbreaks on farms in Kerala in December, killing roughly 54,100 birds. In February, about 6,000 birds were culled at a research centre in Patna, with movement restrictions imposed across a nine-kilometre surveillance zone. In March, more than 22,000 birds were culled in Bilaspur district of Chhattisgarh, and in April Karnataka reported its first case of the year at a farm near Bengaluru.

The direct culling loss is rarely the biggest cost. The bigger hit is the demand shock: consumers step away from chicken for several weeks after every widely reported outbreak, and prices in unaffected states fall alongside those in affected ones. Q4 FY25 was a textbook case, and the strong February–March 2026 realisations look impressive partly because they are measured against that depressed base.

Weather has compounded the problem this season. A prolonged heat wave followed by a delayed and unevenly distributed monsoon raised bird mortality and cut egg production in several states, adding to the cost per marketable bird. For layer units, higher mortality in an inflated-feed environment is a double penalty: the feed has already been consumed before the bird is lost.

The industry’s answer, so far, is largely defensive — stronger vaccination protocols, farm-level biosecurity training and surveillance, alongside a push for indigenous vaccine development that would reduce cost for small and mid-sized farms.

What the ratings agencies see
For all the noise, the credit view is constructive. CareEdge describes FY26 as a year of stabilised operating performance — healthy production growth, resilient demand across retail, institutional and food-service channels, improved supply-demand balance and a recovery in profitability with a strong finish in the fourth quarter. Its FY27 outlook for the sector is stable.
The distinction worth drawing is between the organised and unorganised halves of the industry. Integrators with feed-buying scale, forward contracts and processing margins have ridden the cost cycle. Independent broiler and layer farmers, who buy feed at spot and sell birds at spot, have absorbed it. That gap is quietly accelerating consolidation — the most consequential structural trend in the sector right now, and one that will show up over the next few years in contract-farming penetration and in capital-market activity among the larger integrators.

Public support remains focused on the entrepreneurial end. The National Livestock Mission continues to offer a 50 per cent capital subsidy for parent farms, rural hatcheries and brooder-cum-mother units, aimed at small and rural producers rather than at large integrators. It builds capacity; it does not address the feed-price problem that is currently setting margins.

What to watch for the rest of FY27
• The soymeal decision. Whether the Centre permits the 1.5 million tonne import the livestock industry has requested is the single biggest swing factor for margins this year.
• New-crop maize and soybean arrivals. A good kharif arrival could pull feed back toward ₹4,000 a quintal; a poor one locks in current costs through the festive season.
• Ethanol demand for maize. The structural competitor for feed grain is not going away and will keep a floor under maize prices.
• Winter avian influenza. Outbreak seasonality peaks between December and March. Watch for demand shocks rather than culling losses.
• Festive and winter demand. Egg consumption typically strengthens from October, which should support NECC rates even if feed stays elevated.
• Consolidation and capital. Cost pressure is a filter. Expect more contract farming, more integration, and more interest in the sector from public and private capital.

“The bottom line for anyone with capital in this business: India’s poultry demand story is intact and structurally under-served, but 2026 has demonstrated that returns in this sector are set on the input side, not the output side. The operators who will do well over the next eighteen months are not the ones betting on higher chicken prices. They are the ones who have solved for feed.”

References are available on request.

Introduction : Every year, invisible contaminants hidden within grains and feed ingredients silently reduce livestock productivity. Mycotoxins—naturally occurring toxic compounds produced by fungi—are responsible for millions of dollars in economic losses through poor growth, reduced immunity, reproductive disorders, lower feed efficiency, and increased mortality. Although impossible to see with the naked eye, their impact on poultry, swine, and dairy production is enormous.

What Are Mycotoxins?
Mycotoxins are toxic secondary metabolites produced by moulds such as Aspergillus, Fusarium, and Penicillium. Scientists have identified over 300 different mycotoxins, and studies indicate that nearly one-quarter of global feed supplies may be contaminated.
The most economically important toxins include:
-Aflatoxins
– Ochratoxins
– Fumonisins
– Deoxynivalenol (DON)
– T-2 Toxin
– Zearalenone
Each affects animals differently, but all reduce productivity and profitability.

Why Do Mycotoxins Develop?
Moulds flourish when four conditions come together:
– Warm temperatures
– High humidity
– Moisture in grains
– Oxygen
Once established, fungal growth continues during harvesting, storage, transportation, and feed manufacturing unless properly controlled.

India’s Mycotoxin Challenge
Recent testing presented in the report paints a worrying picture. 6,304 feed analysis, 99% contamination, and 83% above the performance-risk threshold.
Key Findings

– 6,304 feed analysis conducted
– 99% showed detectable contamination
– 83% exceeded performance-risk thresholds
Among ingredients, DORB, peanut meal, maize, soybean meal, DDGS, and corn gluten all showed significant contamination levels.

Multiple Mycotoxins: A Greater Threat
Animals are rarely exposed to a single toxin.
Instead, feeds commonly contain multiple mycotoxins that interact synergistically, making the combined damage significantly greater than the effect of individual toxins. This explains why even relatively low toxin concentrations can cause substantial production losses.

Economic Impact on Farms
The consequences are visible across every production system.

Poultry
– Lower feed intake
– Reduced weight gain
– Poor feed conversion
– Thin eggshells
– Lower hatchability
– Fatty liver
– Weak immunity

Swine
– Reproductive disorders
– Embryonic mortality
– Vomiting
– Reduced growth
– Feed refusal
– Tail necrosis
– Liver and kidney damage
Ultimately, these problems translate directly into economic losses through poorer animal performance.

The Hidden Cost: Immune Suppression
– One of the most damaging effects of mycotoxins is their ability to suppress the immune system.
– Animals become more vulnerable to bacterial and viral infections while showing reduced responses to vaccines and treatments.
– This means disease outbreaks become more severe and recovery becomes slower.

Can Nutrition Help?
Nutritional interventions can reduce the impact of toxins.

Recommended approaches include:
– Higher amino acid supplementation
– Vitamins E, C, and D3
– Selenium
– Choline chloride
– Liver-support products
– Mold inhibitors
– Broad-spectrum toxin binders
These measures improve resilience while reducing toxin damage.

Scientific Toxin Elimination Management (STEM-500)
An effective strategy combines four complementary actions:
1. Prevention
Prevent fungal growth before toxins develop.
2. Elimination
Bind multiple mycotoxins irreversibly.
3. Neutralization
Use enzymatic systems to neutralize toxins.
4. Gut Ecology Enhancement
Improve gut health while strengthening immunity and reducing pathogen pressure. This integrated approach offers broader protection than relying on toxin binders alone.

Featured Solution: STEM-500
The presentation introduces STEM-500, a multi-component toxin management product formulated with:
– Specially treated HSCAS
– Organic acids
– Oxine Copper
– MOS
– Bio-active phytocompounds
– Polyphenols
– Lactobacillus
– Lipotropic agents
According to the presentation, the product is designed to reduce mould growth, bind multiple mycotoxins, minimize endotoxin effects, improve liver function, support gut health, and enhance feed conversion, growth, and survival.

Conclusion
Mycotoxins remain one of the most significant hidden threats in modern animal production. Since contamination can occur throughout the grain supply chain, prevention alone is rarely sufficient. A comprehensive management strategy—combining mould control, toxin binding, detoxification, and gut health support—is essential for maintaining animal health and maximizing production efficiency.

Biosecurity as an Investment: Why Disease Prevention delivers the Best Return on Investment (ROI) in Poultry Production

Prof. (Dr.) P.K. Shukla and Dr. Amitav Bhattacharyya
Department of Poultry Science, College of Veterinary Science and
Animal Husbandry, Mathura- 281001 (U.P.)

Introduction
Over the last five decades, the poultry industry has undergone a remarkable transformation. Scientific advances in genetics, nutrition, housing, disease control, and management have enabled producers to achieve unprecedented levels of productivity. Poultry meat and eggs have become among the most affordable and nutritious sources of animal protein, making the industry indispensable for global food and nutritional security. In India, poultry production has developed into an important agribusiness sector, generating employment for millions of people while supporting allied industries such as hatcheries, feed manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, processing, transportation, and retail.

Despite these achievements, infectious diseases remain one of the greatest constraints to sustainable poultry production. Diseases such as avian influenza, Newcastle disease, infectious bronchitis, infectious bursal disease, Marek’s disease, coccidiosis, salmonellosis, and mycoplasmosis continue to cause substantial economic losses. These diseases not only reduce flock productivity but also affect food safety, consumer confidence, international trade, and public health.

Under modern intensive production systems, disease outbreaks spread rapidly because of high stocking densities, frequent movement of birds and equipment, and increasing interactions among farms. Once pathogens establish themselves within a flock, economic losses accumulate through mortality, reduced growth, poor feed conversion, lower egg production, treatment expenses, and market disruptions. Consequently, preventing disease introduction is far more economical than managing disease after it has occurred.

Biosecurity has therefore become the foundation of modern poultry health management. It is no longer viewed merely as a collection of hygiene practices but as a comprehensive risk management strategy designed to prevent disease while maximizing productivity and profitability.

Economic Impact of Poultry Diseases
The financial consequences of poultry diseases extend far beyond mortality alone. Disease outbreaks affect every component of the production chain, from breeder farms and hatcheries to processing plants, retailers, and consumers.

Direct economic losses include increased mortality, poor weight gain, reduced egg production, inferior feed conversion efficiency, decreased hatchability, veterinary expenses, medication costs, diagnostic testing, and emergency vaccination programmes. Even mild infections that do not cause obvious mortality often reduce flock performance sufficiently to eliminate expected profit margins.

Indirect losses are frequently even greater. Disease outbreaks can result in movement restrictions, export bans, lower consumer demand, reduced processing efficiency, insurance costs, and disruption of supply chains. Highly pathogenic avian influenza has repeatedly demonstrated how a single outbreak can result in massive financial losses through depopulation, compensation payments, and trade restrictions.
Equally damaging are the hidden costs associated with subclinical infections. Chronic disease reduces flock uniformity, suppresses immune responses, increases susceptibility to secondary infections, and diminishes reproductive performance without producing dramatic clinical signs. Such losses often remain unnoticed but continuously erode farm profitability.
These economic realities highlight an important principle: disease prevention should not be regarded solely as a veterinary responsibility but as an essential business strategy that protects investments in chicks, feed, labour, housing, equipment, and marketing.

Prevention Versus Treatment: The Economics of Biosecurity
The principle that “prevention is better than cure” has special relevance in commercial poultry production. Intensive poultry systems house thousands of genetically similar birds in close proximity, allowing infectious agents to spread extremely rapidly once introduced.

By the time clinical signs become evident, pathogens have often multiplied extensively within the flock and contaminated the surrounding environment. Even if treatment successfully controls mortality, birds rarely regain their original production potential. Reduced feed efficiency, slower growth, delayed marketing age, poor egg production, and increased susceptibility to secondary infections frequently persist throughout the production cycle.
Treatment also involves considerable expenditure on antibiotics, supportive medications, laboratory investigations, veterinary consultation, and labour. These costs are incurred after production losses have already begun, thereby reducing overall profitability.
Biosecurity interrupts pathogen transmission before infection becomes established. Investments in perimeter fencing, controlled farm access, sanitation, water treatment, pest management, employee training, and visitor control substantially reduce the probability of disease introduction. Unlike treatment costs, preventive investments continue generating economic returns throughout successive production cycles by maintaining flock health and preserving production efficiency.
Numerous studies have shown that the cost of implementing effective biosecurity programmes is significantly lower than the cumulative losses associated with disease outbreaks. Consequently, biosecurity functions as a form of biological insurance that safeguards every other investment made in poultry production.

Principles of Poultry Biosecurity
Biosecurity is a science-based management system aimed at preventing the introduction, establishment, and spread of infectious agents. Effective biosecurity requires an integrated approach involving infrastructure, operational procedures, personnel behaviour, environmental sanitation, and continuous monitoring.
Three fundamental principles form the basis of poultry biosecurity:

Bio-exclusion focuses on preventing pathogens from entering the farm through controlled access, procurement of healthy chicks, vehicle disinfection, quarantine, and visitor management.

Bio-containment prevents infectious agents from spreading outside infected premises by implementing movement restrictions, proper disposal of carcasses and litter, and thorough cleaning and disinfection.

Bio-management minimizes disease pressure within the farm through vaccination, optimal nutrition, environmental management, pest control, water sanitation, litter management, and animal welfare practices.

Farm design also plays an important role in disease prevention. Poultry farms should be located away from other commercial farms, live bird markets, and migratory bird habitats. Clearly defined clean and dirty zones, all-in/all-out production systems, and adequate downtime between flocks reduce pathogen survival and transmission.
Personnel hygiene is equally critical. Farm workers should use dedicated clothing and footwear, maintain hand hygiene, comply with visitor restrictions, and receive regular biosecurity training. Similarly, feed and water must be protected from contamination through proper storage, water chlorination, and routine quality monitoring.
Rodent and insect control programmes, together with scientifically approved mortality disposal methods, further strengthen disease prevention by eliminating important sources of pathogen transmission.

Biosecurity as a Strategic Business Investment
Historically, many poultry producers regarded expenditures on sanitation, fencing, disinfection equipment, employee training, and surveillance as unavoidable operating costs. Modern poultry enterprises increasingly recognize that these expenditures are investments that protect all other farm assets.

Feed represents nearly two-thirds of total production costs. Healthy birds utilize feed more efficiently, grow faster, produce more eggs, and require fewer medications than diseased birds. Even modest improvements in feed conversion ratio can substantially increase profitability.
Strong biosecurity systems also improve market confidence. Consumers increasingly demand poultry products that are safe, traceable, and produced under high standards of animal health and welfare. Farms maintaining effective biosecurity programmes are better positioned to comply with certification schemes, quality assurance standards, and export requirements.
From a business perspective, biosecurity reduces biological risk while improving enterprise resilience. Disease outbreaks can rapidly destroy years of investment in genetics, housing, labour, and marketing. Preventive biosecurity therefore serves as a protective framework that preserves productivity, enhances competitiveness, and ensures long-term sustainability.
Modern poultry producers should therefore ask not whether they can afford to invest in biosecurity, but whether they can afford the consequences of inadequate disease prevention.

Practical Biosecurity Measures that Enhance Profitability
The success of any biosecurity programme depends on its consistent implementation at the farm level. While sophisticated infrastructure and advanced technologies can strengthen disease prevention, many highly effective biosecurity interventions are simple, practical, and relatively inexpensive. Their value lies not in high capital investment but in disciplined and continuous application.

The first line of defence is strict farm access control. Entry to poultry houses should be restricted to essential personnel, and all visitors should comply with hygiene protocols including hand sanitization, use of dedicated clothing and boots, and passage through properly maintained footbaths. Maintaining visitor records and enforcing a minimum downtime for personnel who have recently visited other poultry farms significantly reduce the likelihood of introducing infectious pathogens.
Cleaning and disinfection remain the cornerstone of disease prevention. Poultry houses, equipment, feeders, drinkers, egg trays, transport crates, and vehicles should be thoroughly cleaned to remove organic matter before applying appropriate disinfectants. Adequate downtime between production cycles allows environmental pathogen loads to decline naturally and improves the effectiveness of sanitation programmes.
Feed and water hygiene are equally important because they represent continuous sources of pathogen exposure. Feed should be procured from reliable manufacturers and stored under dry, rodent-proof conditions to prevent fungal contamination and mycotoxin development.
Drinking water should be regularly tested for microbial quality, chlorinated when necessary, and supplied through cleaned pipelines to minimize biofilm formation.
Integrated pest management also plays a critical role. Rodents, flies, beetles, mosquitoes, and wild birds serve as mechanical carriers of numerous bacterial and viral pathogens. Effective pest control, combined with scientific carcass disposal methods such as composting, rendering, or incineration, minimizes environmental contamination and pathogen persistence.
Finally, employee education is perhaps the most cost-effective biosecurity investment. Every worker should understand disease transmission pathways, recognize early clinical signs, and consistently follow standard operating procedures (SOPs). A well-trained workforce transforms biosecurity from a written protocol into a daily management culture that protects flock health and farm profitability.

Digital Transformation of Poultry Biosecurity
Rapid advances in digital technologies are revolutionizing poultry health management by shifting disease control from a reactive to a predictive approach. Precision livestock farming integrates artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, sensor technologies, automation, and molecular diagnostics to improve disease surveillance and decision-making.

Artificial intelligence can analyse production data such as feed intake, water consumption, mortality, growth rate, and behavioural changes to detect early indicators of disease before clinical signs become apparent. Such predictive systems enable farmers to intervene promptly, thereby reducing mortality and economic losses.
The Internet of Things (IoT) has further strengthened biosecurity by enabling continuous monitoring of environmental variables including temperature, humidity, ammonia concentration, carbon dioxide, ventilation efficiency, and water quality. Automated alerts help managers respond immediately to deviations that may compromise bird health.
Computer vision systems are increasingly being used to monitor flock behaviour, feeding activity, movement patterns, and gait abnormalities. These technologies allow rapid identification of subtle behavioural changes associated with disease onset.
Molecular diagnostic tools such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR), real-time PCR, and genomic sequencing permit rapid detection of viral, bacterial, and parasitic pathogens, facilitating timely intervention. Blockchain-based traceability systems and cloud-based farm management platforms further enhance transparency, certification, and supply chain confidence.
Although digital biosecurity requires initial investment, its long-term benefits include reduced disease incidence, improved productivity, lower veterinary costs, enhanced decision-making, and increased resilience against emerging diseases.

Biosecurity Challenges and Opportunities in India
India has become one of the world’s leading producers of poultry meat and eggs, yet the country’s diverse production systems create unique biosecurity challenges. Large integrated commercial operations coexist with smallholder and backyard poultry farms, creating epidemiological interfaces that facilitate pathogen transmission.

One of the major constraints is uneven awareness regarding the economic importance of biosecurity. Large poultry companies generally maintain comprehensive disease prevention programmes, whereas many small and medium-scale producers continue to regard biosecurity as an additional expense rather than a productive investment. Financial limitations often prevent investment in essential infrastructure such as perimeter fencing, vehicle disinfection facilities, controlled farm entry, and scientific carcass disposal systems.
High poultry density in several production clusters further increases disease risk. Frequent movement of day-old chicks, feed, eggs, live birds, and farm personnel across states facilitates pathogen dissemination. Backyard poultry, live bird markets, and mixed farming systems involving ducks and other livestock also increase the risk of zoonotic disease transmission.
Despite these challenges, India possesses significant opportunities to strengthen poultry biosecurity. The country has a strong network of veterinary universities, diagnostic laboratories, research institutes, extension agencies, and progressive poultry companies capable of promoting scientific disease prevention. Government initiatives supporting livestock health, antimicrobial stewardship, digital agriculture, and the One Health approach can further accelerate adoption of comprehensive biosecurity practices.
Public-private partnerships involving industry associations, academic institutions, pharmaceutical companies, and producer organizations will be instrumental in developing practical, affordable, and scalable biosecurity solutions for Indian poultry farmers.

Biosecurity within the One Health Framework
Modern biosecurity extends beyond farm profitability to encompass animal health, public health, and environmental sustainability. The One Health concept recognizes the close interdependence of humans, animals, and ecosystems.

Effective poultry biosecurity reduces the circulation of zoonotic pathogens such as avian influenza and Salmonella, thereby protecting consumers, farm workers, and surrounding communities. Healthy flocks also require fewer therapeutic antibiotics, contributing to global efforts to combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
Good biosecurity practices improve waste management, reduce contamination of soil and water resources, and minimize environmental dissemination of infectious agents. Consequently, investments in poultry biosecurity generate societal benefits that extend far beyond individual farms by supporting food safety, environmental protection, and national food security.

Capacity Building and Policy Support
Infrastructure alone cannot guarantee successful biosecurity. Human behaviour remains one of the most critical determinants of disease prevention. Continuous training programmes should therefore be provided for farm owners, managers, veterinarians, technicians, and workers on disease recognition, personal hygiene, vaccination, cleaning and disinfection, pest control, mortality management, and emergency response.
Routine biosecurity audits, risk assessments, and comprehensive record-keeping systems enable producers to monitor flock performance and identify weaknesses requiring corrective action. Standard operating procedures should be regularly reviewed and updated in response to emerging disease threats and technological developments.
Government agencies also have an essential role in strengthening national biosecurity through veterinary services, laboratory networks, surveillance systems, science-based regulations, and financial incentives that encourage producers to invest in preventive infrastructure. Harmonization of national standards with international guidelines will further improve India’s competitiveness in global poultry trade.

Way Forward
Biosecurity has evolved from a routine veterinary recommendation into one of the most valuable strategic investments in modern poultry production. Scientific evidence consistently demonstrates that prevention delivers substantially greater economic returns than treatment. Every investment made in disease prevention safeguards valuable biological assets, preserves productivity, reduces veterinary expenditure, minimizes antimicrobial use, and enhances market confidence.
For India, where poultry production continues to expand rapidly, widespread adoption of comprehensive biosecurity systems will be fundamental to sustainable growth. Success will require coordinated efforts involving producers, veterinarians, researchers, policymakers, industry organizations, and technology providers working within a One Health framework.
The future of poultry farming will increasingly depend on predictive health management supported by digital technologies, precision farming, artificial intelligence, and robust surveillance systems. Producers who integrate biosecurity into their core business strategy will be better equipped to withstand emerging disease threats, satisfy evolving consumer expectations, and compete successfully in international markets.
Ultimately, the most profitable poultry enterprise is not the one that spends the least on disease prevention, but the one that invests wisely to ensure disease never compromises productivity. Biosecurity should therefore be regarded not as an operational expense but as a high-return investment that protects animal health, public health, environmental sustainability, and the long-term resilience of the poultry industry.

Selected References
1. Alexander, D. J. (2007). An overview of the epidemiology of avian influenza. Vaccine, 25, 5637–5644.
2. FAO. (2023). Good Practices for Biosecurity in the Poultry Sector. Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations.
3. Gelaude, P., Schlepers, M., Verlinden, M., et al. (2014). Measuring on-farm poultry biosecurity using Biocheck.UGent. Poultry Science, 93, 2740–2750.
4. Glisson, J. R., Hofacre, C. L., & Christensen, J. P. (2019). Poultry Diseases. Elsevier.
5. WOAH. (2023). Terrestrial Animal Health Code.
6. Swayne, D. E. (Ed.). (2020). Diseases of Poultry (14th ed.). Wiley-Blackwell.
7. World Health Organization. (2022). One Health Joint Plan of Action (2022–2026).
8. World Bank. (2022). One Health Operational Framework for Strengthening Animal Health Systems.
9. FAO. (2022). Biosecurity Guide for Poultry Production and Value Chains.
10. USDA APHIS. (2023). Defend the Flock: Biosecurity for Poultry Owners.

Monsoon Broiler Management: Mitigating Humid-Heat Stress

Dr. Sikander1, Dr. Pooja Kundu2 and Dr. N K Mahajan3
1M.V.Sc student, Department of Veterinary Pathology, LUVAS Hisar,
2Veterinary Surgeon, Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying, Govt. of Haryana,
3Retd. Professor and Dean, LUVAS Hisar.

Monsoon brings a unique and formidable set of challenges for commercial poultry farming. As monsoon advances, ambient temperatures remain high while relative humidity level also increases, flocks face dangerous dual threat of severe humid-heat stress and a higher prevalence of systemic viral infection with respiratory manifestations – such as Infectious Bronchitis Virus (IBV), Newcastle Disease Virus (NDV), or Low pathogenic Avian Influenza (LPAI) and Multi Drug Resistance Avian pathogenic E coli (MDR-APEC). Unlike mammals, birds lack sweat glands and rely on panting (evaporative cooling) and behavioral mechanisms like seeking shade, gular fluttering and standing in cool areas to regulate their body temperature. When relative humidity increases defense mechanism fails entirely, the consequences extend far beyond a drop in performance. Humid- heat stress triggers systemic physiological disruptions that compromise the intestinal barrier, suppress the immune system, and open the floodgates for opportunistic infections and catastrophic mortality.

Effectively managing a poultry farm requires a proactive approach balancing environmental humidity control, intensive litter management, strict water sanitization, and precise nutritional adjustments.

1. Environmental &Ventilation Control
Primary challenge is no longer just cooling the air, but moving moisture away from the birds and preventing the shed from becoming hot and humid.
· Stocking Density: Maintain strict reduction in stocking density by 10% to 15% compared to winter baselines. Allowing extra floor space per bird is critical during high-humidity periods to minimize micro-climate heat accumulation between individuals.

· Ventilation and Operational Air Velocity: Ensure that fans are running at peak efficiency. In environmentally controlled (EC) sheds, maintain an air velocity of at least 2.5 to 3.0 meters per second directly across the birds. Because evaporative cooling drops in efficiency when relative humidity exceeds 70%, farmers must rely on the wind-chill effect (convective cooling) to strip heat from the birds’ bodies. Regularly check house manometers. Maintain static pressure within the optimal 0.08 to 0.12 inches of water column depending on house width. High static pressure indicates restricted air inlets (clogged pads), causing fan motors to overheat and air speed to drop. Low static pressure indicates structural air leaks (loose curtains or unsealed doors), which causes short-circuiting of air currents and dead air spaces.

· Evaporative Cooling Pads: On high humidity days when relative humidity exceeds 70–75%, turn off the water pumps to the pads completely. Running water over the pads when air is already saturated will not lower temperature; it will only increase humidity, exacerbating respiratory distress. Run exhaust fans at maximum capacity to maximize pure wind velocity. Clean pads regularly with descalants to remove dust and monsoon-induced mold or algae blooms.

· Internal Fogger Restrictions: For open-sided poultry houses, discontinue use of internal low-pressure foggers entirely during rainy or high-humidity days. Fogger droplets will fail to evaporate in mid-air, falling directly onto the litter, causing wet floors, severe ammonia release, and coccidiosis outbreaks. High-pressure systems (400–600 PSI) should only be cycled briefly if dry, hot spells occur.

2. Water Security & Quality Management
Warm, humid monsoon conditions cause rapid bacterial proliferation and heavy biofilm formation in pipeline networks. Since water consumption remains high, biological water security is critical.

· Water Acidification and Sanitization: Efficacy of chlorine-based sanitizers is fundamentally tied to pH. In alkaline water (pH above 7.5), chlorine converts primarily into hypochlorite ions (OCl-), which are highly inefficient at killing bacteria. By utilizing organic acidifiers (Formic, Propionic, or Citric acid) to maintain an optimized, acidic water pH of 5.5 to 6.5, chlorine converts instead into hypochlorous acid (HOCl). This active form is up to 80 times more effective at destroying bacterial cell walls, preventing water lines from becoming breeding grounds for E. coli and Salmonella.

· Water Temperature Regulation: Particularly during hot spells birds will reject water if it is too warm (more than 22°C). Overhead water storage tanks must be fully shaded, or completely insulated with glass wool or local materials like gunny bags. Flush water lines regularly during the day to clear standing warm water and deliver cool, clean water to the nipples.

· Water Line Biofilm Removal: Between bird batches, or as a quick preventative step, water lines must be deeply cleaned to break down slimy bacterial buildup (biofilm). To do this, fill the pipe system with a 1–2% mix of hydrogen peroxide stabilized with silver nitrate. Leave this solution sitting still in the pipes for 4 to 6 hours so it can chemically dissolve the organic matrix completely. Immediately after; flush the lines thoroughly with high-pressure fresh water to wash away all the loosened dirt and leftover chemicals before the new chicks arrive.

3. Nutritional Adjustments & Electrolyte Therapy
In humid weather, broilers voluntarily reduce feed intake to minimize the metabolic heat generated by digestion. Feed consumed must be nutrient-dense but easy to metabolize.

4. Operational Practices
Minimizing physical and physiological stress and preserving litter quality are vital to avoiding sudden spikes in mortality.

· Feeding Schedule: Do not feed the birds during hottest, most humid hours of the day (typically 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM). Shift feed distribution to early morning/late evening when ambient conditions are more favorable. This prevents the peak of metabolic digestion from coinciding with the peak of environmental stress.

· Intensive Litter Management: Litter management is highly critical. Wet, caked litter undergoes rapid anaerobic fermentation, releasing toxic ammonia gas (NH3). Ammonia damages the protective cilia in the bird’s respiratory tract, leaving them highly vulnerable to viral infections (IBV/NDV). Rake the litter regularly during dry periods, add agricultural gypsum or alum to control ammonia release, and immediately replace wet patches with dry, pre-treated rice husk or sawdust.

· Zero Disturbances: Avoid shifting birds, vaccinations, flock grading, litter raking, and mortality collection, or weighing during peak heat hours. Any forced physical activity compels the birds to generate more internal metabolic heat load, which can quickly trigger acute heat stroke and fatal cardiovascular arrest.

Key Dietary Implementations

5. Critical Emergency Protocol:
· Assess Humidity and Disable Water Inputs: Immediate Check the relative humidity. If it is above 70%, ensure all cooling pad pumps and internal foggers are turned off immediately. Introducing more water vapor into saturated air will accelerate mortality.

· Maximize Wind Velocity: Within 2 minutes.
Override automated fan settings and force all exhaust fans to operate at 100% capacity. Achieve maximum operational air velocity (greater than 3.0 m/s) to maximize heat dissipation via the wind-chill effect.

· Charge Water Lines with Electrolytes: Within 10 minutes.
Ensure that cool water (under 22°C) infused with highly concentrated electrolytes—specifically Potassium Chloride and Sodium Bicarbonate—is fully charged into the drinking lines to combat respiratory alkalosis.

· Enforce Absolute Shed Calm: Continuous
Cease all human movement inside the shed. Do not collect mortality, adjust curtains, or walk along the lines during the crisis, as forcing a heat-stressed bird to stand up can induce instant heart failure.

Summary for Monsoon Management: Successful monsoon poultry management requires a complete shift from evaporative cooling to heavy wind-chill ventilation, aggressive litter moisture controls, and feed protection against molds. Managing the farm proactively before seasonal humidity peaks eliminates induced physiological stress, secures optimal feed conversion ratios (FCR), and safeguards overall farm profitability.

The poultry industry invests significant resources into genetics, hatching and breeding to ensure high-quality birds enter the supply chain. How do you preserve that value through catching, transport, lairage, and processing – without compromising welfare, quality, or operational efficiency? Live bird handling has become one of the most critical control points in modern poultry processing. It directly influences product quality, compliance, yield, and overall plant performance.

Efficient, low-stress live bird handling is essential for the performance and success of any poultry processing operation.

The Challenge Behind Live Bird Handling
In today’s poultry industry, processors operate under increasing pressure from multiple directions.
Higher processing speeds demand more from every part of the system. At the same time, labour challenges make manual handling more difficult to sustain. Stricter animal welfare regulations continue to raise expectations, while sustainability targets require reductions in energy use, emissions, and waste. On top of this, biosecurity risks must be tightly controlled to protect both product and plant integrity.

These external pressures translate into very real operational challenges:
– Avoiding dead-on-arrivals and bird injuries
– Ensuring high standards of animal welfare throughout catching, transport, lairage, and reception
– Maintaining consistent product quality
– Ensuring steady line feeding without disruption
– Reducing reliance on manual labour
– Managing variability in farm and transport conditions

Even small inefficiencies in live bird handling can cascade through the entire production process, affecting both cost and output.

Automation in the reception area ensures smooth, efficient handling while reducing reliance on manual labour.

Why It Matters More Than Ever
Live birds represent a high-value input that has already required significant investment before they reach the plant. Any loss in quality during handling translates directly into lost yield and reduced profitability.

Poor handling conditions during catching, transport, or reception can lead to stress, injury, and inconsistent product quality. These issues do not remain isolated – they impact downstream efficiency, outcome quality, and customer expectations.

In contrast, well-designed handling systems help maintain control over a process that has traditionally been variable and labour-intensive.

Transport equipment should be robust and allow for a safe journey from farm to plant.

The Role of Modern Live Bird Handling Systems
To address the above-mentioned challenges, the industry is increasingly moving toward integrated, automated, and welfare-focused handling systems.
Modern solutions are designed to manage the full journey from farm to shackling in a controlled and consistent way, reducing variability and improving outcomes across multiple dimensions.

Key capabilities include:
Gentle and Controlled Handling
Reducing stress and physical impact during catching, transport, and unloading helps preserve both welfare and product quality.

Automated Processes Where It Counts
Automation in key areas such as catching, unloading, stacking, or equipment washing reduces labour dependency while improving consistency and throughput.

Stable Line Feeding
Reception systems are designed to ensure a continuous and controlled flow of birds to the shackling area, even at high processing speeds.

Environmental Control
Proper airflow during transport and lairage helps prevent heat stress and supports animal welfare under varying climate conditions.

Hygiene and Biosecurity
Washable and disinfection-ready systems help reduce pathogen risks and maintain strict hygiene standards between flocks.

Scalability and Flexibility
Modular system designs allow processors to expand capacity or adapt layouts as production needs evolve, without major operational disruption.

Highly effective washing equipment eliminates the risk of inconsistencies associated with manual cleaning, ensuring reliable and repeatable hygiene standards.

Key Factors in System Design
Selecting the right live bird handling approach depends heavily on operational context. Farm layout, infrastructure, and access conditions all influence system design.
Large-scale operations require high-capacity systems capable of handling volume efficiently, while maintaining gentle handling principles. In contrast, labour availability may determine the level of automation required.

Climate conditions also play an important role. Systems must support adequate airflow and temperature control to prevent heat stress during transport and lairage.
Finally, biosecurity requirements and cleaning protocols are increasingly important, requiring equipment designed for effective washing and contamination control.

A well-designed live bird handling system takes conditions across the farm, transport, and reception areas into account to ensure best performance

A System-Level Approach to Performance
The most effective live bird handling strategies treat the entire process as one integrated system rather than isolated steps.
From farm loading to plant reception, every stage must work together to maintain flow, protect bird welfare, and support consistent processing.
When this is achieved, processors benefit from:
– Improved animal welfare outcomes
– Higher and more consistent product quality
– Reduced dead-on-arrivals and injuries
– Better operational efficiency and throughput stability
– Lower labour dependency
– Stronger compliance with regulatory standards
–   Greater long-term scalability

Choosing the Right Provider
To meet these diverse needs of a global market, BAADER offers crate handling and module/drawer solutions in a variety of modular layout options. These solutions are designed to adapt to specific operational requirements, ensuring flexibility and efficiency in handling processes.

Our live bird handling specialists provide processing audits to effectively analyse current and future challenges, helping processors design reception layouts that meet market demands. With over 80 years of proven expertise in handling live birds, we offer solutions supported by both global and local services to ensure equipment operates smoothly and efficiently.

Visit: https://poultry.baader.com/live-bird-handling to learn more about the BAADER live bird handling solutions

Introduction
Inclusion Body Hepatitis (IBH) is an economically important viral disease of broiler chickens characterized by sudden mortality, hepatitis, and the presence of intranuclear inclusion bodies in liver cells. The disease is primarily caused by Fowl Adenoviruses (FAdVs), particularly serotypes belonging to species D and E. IBH has become increasingly significant worldwide due to its impact on broiler performance, increased mortality, poor feed conversion, and substantial economic losses. The disease mainly affects young broiler chickens between 3 and 7 weeks of age, although birds of other ages may also be affected. Vertical transmission from breeder flocks and horizontal spread through contaminated litter, water, equipment, and personnel play major roles in disease dissemination.

Etiology
IBH is caused by Fowl Adenoviruses (FAdVs), non-enveloped double-stranded DNA viruses belonging to the genus Aviadenovirus within the family Adenoviridae. Several serotypes have been associated with disease outbreaks, including FAdV-2, FAdV-8a, FAdV-8b, and FAdV-11.
Predisposing factors include:
– Immunosuppression caused by Infectious Bursal Disease (IBD)
– Chicken Infectious Anemia (CIA)
– Mycotoxicosis (Poor quality of feed ingredients contaminated with fungus and Mycotoxins).
– Poor Biosecurity and Management
– High stocking density

Clinical Signs
Affected broiler flocks may exhibit:
– Sudden increase in mortality
– Depression and lethargy
– Huddling with Ruffled feathers
– Reduced feed and water consumption
– Usually affects birds of 3 to 5 weeks age, but can be seen in the chicks aging from 4-5 day old.
– Pale comb and wattles
– Poor weight gain
– Diarrhoea with mucoid droppings or green droppings
– Anemia in severe cases
Mortality rates generally range from 5–15%, but outbreaks may occasionally result in mortality exceeding 30%.

Post-Mortem Lesions
The most characteristic lesions are observed in the liver.
Gross Lesions
Liver
– Enlarged, swollen, and pale liver
– Yellowish discoloration
– Multifocal necrotic foci
– Petechial and ecchymotic hemorrhages
– Friable consistency
Kidneys
– Enlarged and pale kidneys
– Congestion
Heart
– Hydropericardium may occasionally be present
– Pale myocardium
Spleen
– Enlargement and congestion
Histopathological Lesions
Microscopic examination reveals:
– Severe hepatic necrosis
– Basophilic intranuclear inclusion bodies in hepatocytes
– Degeneration and destruction of liver cells
– Mononuclear cell infiltration
The presence of characteristic intranuclear inclusion bodies is considered pathognomonic for IBH.

Serology
Serological testing is useful for monitoring flock exposure and breeder immunity.
Common serological methods include:
ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay)
– Detects antibodies against Fowl Adenovirus
– Useful for flock monitoring
– Evaluates maternal antibody levels
Virus Neutralization Test (VNT)
– Determines serotype-specific antibodies
– Primarily used in research and epidemiological investigations
Interpretation
– High antibody titers in breeders provide maternal protection to progeny.
– Seroconversion in broilers indicates field exposure.
– Paired serum samples can help determine recent infection.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis should be based on a combination of clinical history, post-mortem findings, histopathology, and laboratory confirmation.
Field Diagnosis
Suspect IBH when:
– Sudden mortality occurs in 3–7 week-old broilers.
– Enlarged, pale, hemorrhagic liver is observed.
– There is a history of immunosuppressive diseases.
Laboratory Diagnosis
Histopathology
– Demonstration of intranuclear inclusion bodies in hepatocytes.
Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)
– Highly sensitive and specific.
– Detects and identifies FAdV serotypes.
Virus Isolation
– Performed in chicken embryo liver cells or embryonated eggs.
Immunohistochemistry
– Detects adenoviral antigen within tissues.
Sequencing
– Used for epidemiological studies and strain characterization.

Treatment
There is no specific antiviral treatment for Inclusion Body Hepatitis.

Management is mainly supportive:
Supportive Therapy
– Multivitamin supplementation
– Vitamin E and Selenium administration
– Use D’Bio-Mix 20-25 mL per 100 birds and ABES-URZZA 20 ml for 100 birds.
– Ionic electrolyte (ABESTRAL) supplementation and probiotic prebiotic supplementation
— Adequate hydration
Control of Secondary Infections
– Antibiotics may be administered under veterinary supervision to control secondary bacterial infections.
Management Measures
– Reduce stress factors
– Improve ventilation
– Maintain litter quality
– Ensure proper nutrition

Prevention and Control
Effective prevention relies on biosecurity and breeder vaccination.

Biosecurity Measures
– All-in/all-out management
– Thorough cleaning and disinfection
– Restriction of farm visitors
– Proper disposal of dead birds
– Control of rodents and insects
– Sanitation of equipment and vehicles
Breeder Flock Management
– Monitor antibody levels regularly.
– Vaccinate breeders to ensure maternal antibody transfer.
– Prevent immunosuppressive diseases such as IBD and CIA.
Control of Vertical Transmission
– Maintain healthy breeder flocks.
– Conduct routine serological surveillance.
– Implement strict hatchery hygiene.

Vaccination Schedule
Vaccination strategies vary according to local epidemiology and circulating serotypes.
Breeder Vaccination Program
Age Vaccine
8–10 weeks Killed IBH (primary dose)
14–16 weeks Booster dose
18–20 weeks (before lay) Optional booster in high-risk areas
Broiler Vaccination
Routine vaccination of broilers is generally not practiced in many regions because protection is primarily achieved through maternal antibodies. However, live or inactivated vaccines may be considered in endemic areas under veterinary guidance.
Objectives of Vaccination
– Prevent vertical transmission
– Enhance maternal antibody levels
– Reduce mortality and production losses
– Improve flock uniformity

Economic Impact
IBH can result in:
– Increased mortality
– Poor growth performance
– Reduced feed efficiency
– Higher medication costs
– Increased carcass condemnation
– Significant financial losses to poultry producers

Conclusion
Inclusion Body Hepatitis remains an important viral disease of modern broiler production. Early diagnosis, strict biosecurity, breeder vaccination, and effective management practices are essential for disease prevention and control. Maintaining strong maternal immunity through breeder vaccination and minimizing immunosuppressive conditions can significantly reduce the impact of IBH on commercial poultry operations.

Clean, high-quality drinking water is one of the most important factors affecting the health, performance, and productivity of commercial poultry flocks. Before starting any ongoing water treatment program, producers must first ensure the entire water distribution system is thoroughly cleaned and free of accumulated deposits.

Why Deep-Water Line Cleaning Is Essential
Over time, poultry drinking lines develop biofilm, scale, and mineral buildup. These layers provide ideal hiding spots and nutrients for harmful bacteria such as E. coli, Pseudomonas, and Salmonella. Pathogens protected inside biofilm can survive for extended periods and continuously re-contaminate the flock.
Heavy buildup can also reduce water flow dramatically – sometimes by 70-80% – leading to reduced water intake and poorer flock performance. Traditional cleaning products often fall short when dealing with established biofilm, and some acidifiers or additives can even encourage yeast and fungal growth in certain conditions.

A Superior Cleaning Solution
One standout product that addresses these challenges effectively is Intra Hydrocare, an advanced stabilized hydrogen peroxide formulation. Thanks to its unique stabilization technology, it delivers a controlled, long-lasting oxidative action that penetrates deep into lines and reaches the very last nipple drinker.

Unlike conventional cleaners, Intra Hydrocare:
– Effectively breaks down and removes stubborn biofilm
– Eliminates a wide range of bacteria, viruses, yeasts, and fungi — even those shielded within biofilm
– Helps manage organic material along with certain mineral deposits
– Is biodegradable and safe for equipment, animals, and the environment when used according to label instructions
– Carries strong regulatory approvals across multiple countries

Key Factors to Evaluate Before Cleaning
Successful water system cleaning starts with understanding your specific situation:
– Water Source: Well water is particularly prone to biofilm and slime. Even treated municipal water can develop issues due to low flow rates and temperature increases inside poultry houses.
– Water Chemistry: High levels of calcium, magnesium, iron, manganese, or sulfur accelerate scale formation and residues.
– Previous Treatments: Regular use of vitamins, electrolytes, sugars, or mild acidifiers often accelerates organic buildup and makes lines harder to clean.
– Flock Health History: Recurring issues such as E. coli infections, necrotic enteritis, or respiratory problems can sometimes be traced back to contaminated water lines.

Recommended Deep Cleaning Procedure (Empty House)
1. Remove birds and flush the entire system with plain water, using high pressure where possible to dislodge loose debris.
2. Prepare a 1-3% solution of Intra Hydrocare (typically 1-3 liters per 100 liters of water) using a reliable medicator or injector.
3. Fill all lines completely, activate the nipple drinkers, and allow adequate contact time-preferably up to 24 hours for heavy biofilm.
4. Thoroughly flush the system afterward with clean water.
Note on volumes: A 100-foot section of ½-inch line typically holds approximately 9.5 liters. Accurate calculation ensures proper dosing and coverage.

Maintaining Clean Lines Between Flocks
A one-time deep clean is only the beginning. To prevent rapid recontamination, implement a daily water sanitation program using Intra Hydrocare at maintenance levels (generally 50–100 ml per 1,000 liters of water). Its slow-release properties provide ongoing protection without compromising bird performance.
For farms with hard water, combining the treatment with appropriate descaling steps can further improve results. Pay special attention to water quality during the first 7–10 days after placement of a new flock.

Bottom Line
High-performing poultry flocks need consistent access to clean, safe drinking water. Investing in proper water line cleaning and ongoing sanitation with a proven, effective product like Intra Hydrocare helps protect bird health, improve performance, and support better profitability.
Producers looking for reliable protocols tailored to their operation should consult their local Intracare professionals for practical guidance.

Weather fluctuations, particularly during seasonal transitions, create significant stress in poultry production systems. Sudden changes in temperature, humidity, ventilation patterns, and air quality weaken the birds’ immune defenses and predispose them to respiratory infections. Among these, Mycoplasmosis is one of the most economically important diseases affecting both commercial layers and breeder flocks.

The two major pathogenic species affecting poultry are:
– Mycoplasma gallisepticum infection (MG)
– Mycoplasma synoviae infection (MS)
These organisms are highly contagious and often become more problematic during changing weather conditions due to increased environmental stress and compromised flock immunity.

Why Changing Weather Increases Mycoplasma Problems
During weather transitions such as:
– Summer to monsoon
– Monsoon to winter
– Sudden cold or heat waves
birds experience physiological stress that suppresses their immune response. Several environmental factors contribute to Mycoplasma outbreaks:
1. Temperature Fluctuation
Rapid day-night temperature variation stresses birds and damages the respiratory mucosa, making it easier for Mycoplasma organisms to colonize the respiratory tract.
2. Poor Ventilation
Farmers often reduce ventilation during cold weather to conserve heat. This increases:
– Ammonia levels
– Dust accumulation
– Humidity
– Carbon dioxide concentration
Such conditions irritate the respiratory tract and favor Mycoplasma multiplication.
3. High Humidity and Wet Litter
During monsoon seasons, excessive moisture increases pathogen survival and worsens respiratory stress.
4. Secondary Infections
Changing weather also favors bacterial and viral co-infections such as:
– Newcastle disease
– Infectious bronchitis
– Escherichia coli infection

These infections intensify the severity of Mycoplasma disease.
Clinical Signs in Layers and Breeders
Affected birds may show:
– Coughing and sneezing
– Nasal discharge
– Rales and respiratory sounds
– Swollen sinuses
– Watery eyes
– Reduced feed intake
– Depression and poor growth
– Increased mortality in severe cases

In breeder flocks, fertility and hatchability may decline significantly.

Impact on Layer Performance
Mycoplasma infection severely affects commercial egg production.
1. Drop in Egg Production
Layers infected with MG or MS commonly show:
-Sudden reduction in egg production
– Irregular laying patterns
– Delayed peak production
Production losses may range from 5–20% depending on flock condition and secondary infections.
2. Poor Egg Quality
Infected layers may produce:
– Thin-shelled eggs
– Misshapen eggs
– Smaller eggs
– Poor shell strength
This increases breakage and market rejection.
3. Increased Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR)
Respiratory stress reduces feed efficiency, increasing production cost per egg.
4. Increased Culling and Mortality
Chronically affected birds become poor performers and require early culling.

Impact on Breeder Performance
The economic effect of Mycoplasma is even more serious in breeder operations.
1. Reduced Fertility
Mycoplasma infection negatively affects reproductive performance, lowering fertility percentage.
2. Poor Hatchability
Vertical transmission through eggs can infect embryos, causing:
– Embryonic mortality
– Weak chicks
– Poor hatchability
3. Transmission to Progeny
MG and MS can spread from infected breeders to chicks through eggs, creating long-term farm problems.
4. Reduced Chick Quality
Chicks from infected breeder flocks often show:
– Weakness
– Respiratory distress
– Poor growth potential
– Higher early mortality

Economic Losses
Mycoplasma outbreaks during changing weather can lead to major financial losses through:
– Reduced egg production
– Poor hatchability
– Increased medication costs
– Mortality and culling
– Lower chick quality
– Increased feed costs
– Trade restrictions in breeder operations

Diagnosis
Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective control. Common diagnostic methods include:
– Serological testing (ELISA, SPA)
– PCR testing
– Culture and isolation
– Postmortem examination

Typical lesions include:
– Air sacculitis
– Tracheitis
– Foamy air sacs
– Pneumonia

Prevention and Control Measures
1. Maintain Proper Ventilation
Ensure adequate airflow without creating drafts.
2. Reduce Environmental Stress
– Maintain uniform temperature
– Avoid sudden temperature changes
w Control humidity levels
3. Strengthen Biosecurity
– Restrict visitor movement
– Disinfect equipment
– Control wild birds and rodents
4. Vaccination
Vaccination programs against MG and MS should be followed according to veterinary recommendations.
5. Early Medication
Prompt treatment using appropriate antimicrobials under veterinary guidance can reduce severity.
6. Improve Litter and Air Quality
Regular litter management helps reduce ammonia and dust.
7. Nutritional Support
Provide vitamins, electrolytes, and immune boosters during stressful weather periods.

Conclusion
Changing weather conditions significantly increase the risk and severity of Mycoplasma infections in poultry farms. Layers suffer from reduced egg production and poor egg quality, while breeders face severe reproductive and hatchability losses. Because Mycoplasma infections often become chronic and difficult to eliminate, prevention through good management, ventilation, biosecurity, and stress reduction remains the most effective strategy.

Early detection and timely intervention are essential to maintain flock health, productivity, and profitability during seasonal