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.

The U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC) organised Soy Connext 2026 at the Hyatt Regency, Chicago, bringing together more than 800 participants from 60 plus countries around the globe from animal nutrition, feed, food and agribusiness sectors. The flagship summit provided an important platform for international collaboration, market intelligence, sustainability, innovation and discussions on strengthening global food, feed and nutritional security. The program also included interactions with U.S. soybean growers, farm visits in Illinois and States, USA, the Soy Excellence Center (SEC) 2026 Top Achiever Recognition Award Ceremony, a Risk Management and Market Awareness Workshop and a technical visit to Kent Feed Mills, Iowa State University.

Strong Representation from Middle East, North Africa and South Asia (MENASA) Region at Soy Connext 2026
The delegation from Indian was led by Mr. Franklin Manuel, India Market Lead, U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC) and included Mr. Sanjeev Asthana, CEO, Patanjali Group and President, The Solvent Extractors’ Association of India; Mr. Angshu Mallick, Executive Deputy Chairman, Adani Wilmar Agri Business Limited, Mr. B. V. Mehta, Ms. Garima Jain, Mr. Vidya Bhushan, Mr. Kanubhai Thakkar, Mr. Kedar Kulkarni, Mr. Vinod Kumar Jain, Mr. Saurabh Singh Mehta, Mr. Pradeep Krishna, Mr. Rishan and Mr. Ricky Thaper.

As part of the program, the delegation visited Jeff O’Conner Farm in Illinois State and interacted with Mr. Jeff O’Conner, a sixth-generation soybean grower and Board Director of the Illinois Soybean Association. The visit provided valuable insights into sustainable soybean production, advanced genetics, precision agriculture, technology adoption and environmental stewardship.

Interactions with members of the Illinois Soybean Association during the Illinois Soy Reception further highlighted the importance of farmer-led institutions, strategic planning and public-private partnerships in developing a resilient soybean value chain.
The Soy Excellence Center (SEC) 2026 Top Achiever Recognition Award Ceremony was another important highlight of the program. Ms. Anne Meis, Chair, SEC Global Advisory Panel (GAP) welcomed participants, followed by remarks from Mr. Brent Swart, SEC GAP Secretary, and Mr. Mike McCranie, USSEC Chair.
Mr. Brent Swart presented the Impact Subcommittee Report, while Mr. Joel Schreurs, SEC GAP Treasurer, presented the Finance Subcommittee Report. Mr. Brent Babb, Executive Director, Soy Excellence Center, provided an update on SEC’s growing global footprint. Regional updates from the Americas, Asia, China, India, Nigeria and MENA demonstrated SEC’s contribution towards professional capacity building across the global protein value chain.

A proud moment for India came when Dr. Vijay Anand E. Pilli, Center Lead, Soy Excellence Center–India, highlighted the achievements of the SEC -India.
The STAR Award was presented to Dr. Pragati Salutgi in recognition of her outstanding contribution. Mr. Jim Sutter, CEO, USSEC appreciated the contributions of SEC Global Advisory Panel and Regional Advisory Council Members.

I feel truly honoured to serve as a Regional Advisory Council Member – India of the Soy Excellence Center – SEC India, an outstanding initiative of U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC). Over the years, SEC has played a transformative role in upskilling professionals across the livestock, feed, aquaculture and food sectors, thereby strengthening the global protein value chain. A heartfelt thank you to Soy Excellence Center and U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC) entire teams for their unwavering dedication and visionary leadership in investing in people – the most valuable asset for the future of poultry, dairy, aqua and food industry.

During a special media interaction attended by more than 20 international journalists, Mr. Mike McCranie, Chair, USSEC Board of Directors shared the perspective of U.S. soybean farmers and while reflecting on life as a soybean farmer, he shared a powerful thought “We love to produce crops and watch them grow. But what we really love is seeing our crops feed people around the

world. That is, without question, the most gratifying part of being a farmer.” His words beautifully captured the true purpose of agriculture—feeding the world.

Mr. Jim Sutter, CEO, USSEC, emphasized that Soy Connext 2026 with 800 plus registrations is more than a conference—it is a global platform for collaboration, innovation and sharing scientific insights. Mr. Sutter highlighted that U.S. Soy combines superior feed performance, verified sustainability and a highly reliable supply chain, positioning it to meet the world’s growing demand for protein. With global soybean import demand projected to rise significantly and a record U.S. soybean crop expected this year, the outlook for U.S. Soy remains exceptionally strong. Mr. Jim Sutter added U.S. Soy supply chain is backed by highway, rail, river and barge logistics that buffer supply when a buyer needs it, we deliver it. The world needs more protein and more oil for decades to come and U.S. Soy delivers both reliably, sustainably and at a value buyers can trust.

Post Media interaction, I had Insightful discussions with Mr. Kevin Roepke, Executive Director, USSEC – Middle East, North Africa & South Asia (MENASA), highlighted that SoyConnext2026 once again demonstrated U.S. Soy leadership in enabling sustainable food and feed systems worldwide. Mr. Kevin Roepke added Soy Connext has established itself as the world’s premier globally recognized soy event. Every year, it gets bigger and better and we are proud to see that this year we had over 800 participants join us from across the world. Apart from the stellar agenda and amazing speaker line-up, this conference also gives us the opportunity to network with the industry veterans, customers, U.S. soybean farmers, USSEC members and more. It represents what USSEC stands for: strengthening partnerships, fostering relations and building a preference for U.S. Soy across the world. These in person engagements build trust, emphasize the importance of supply chain resilience. Insatiable demand for both protein and oil is setting an exciting stage for the conversations and discussions being held. To that end, U.S. Soy plays a pivotal role in improving nutrition security across the world, while doing so in an environmentally sustainable and responsible manner.

Mr. Franklin Manuel, India Market Lead, USSEC described the engagement as a truly rewarding experience, emphasizing that the high-level interactions strengthened understanding and relationships across the U.S.–India soy value chain. The discussions opened new avenues for trade, innovation, sustainability and market development, while creating a stronger foundation for future soy cooperation and advocacy.

Mr. Sanjeev Asthana, CEO, Patanjali Group and President, The Solvent Extractors’ Association of India appreciated the depth of discussions at Soy Connext 2026, noting that the event brought critical issues around trade, agriculture and protein to the forefront. He emphasized that the Indian crushing and animal protein industries have valuable lessons to draw from global trends shaping the future of business.

Mr. Angshu Mallick, Executive Deputy Chairman, Adani Wilmar Agri Business Limited, highlighted the opportunity to interact with delegates from across the world and observe how the global soybean industry is increasingly focused on sustainability and critical role of soybeans in food and feed systems.

Mr. Pradeep Krishna, Executive Director, SKM Animal Feeds & Foods (India) Pvt Ltd., said Events like Soy Connext 2026 create meaningful platforms for dialogue, strengthen relationships across the value chain and open pathways for long-term collaboration. During networking reception my discussions with farmer leaders from American Soybean Association (ASA), United Soybean Board (USB) and U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC), reinforced one key message: international collaboration is essential to building resilient, sustainable and nutrition-focused food systems.

Global Leaders Share Perspectives on the Future of Soy during Soy Connext 2026 Conference

Soy Connext 2026 – Where Bright Minds Connect, commenced with welcome and opening remarks by Mr. Mike McCranie, Chair, USSEC Board of Directors.

Ms. Colby P., Executive Director, International Strategy, USSEC, introduced Ms. Michelle Caruso-Cabrera, CEO, MCC Global Enterprises, CNBC Contributor, who spoke on “Global Forces at Play: Geopolitics, Trade & the Future of Soy.”

Mr. Tanner Ehmke, Lead Economist, CoBank, presented “The Global Soy Outlook: Supply, Demand & Market Signals.” A panel on “How It’s Growing: Inside the 2026 U.S. Soy Crop” featured Mr. Mike McCranie; Mr. Randy Miller, Director, USSEC; Mr. J. L. Scott Metzger, President, American Soybean Association; and Mr. Brent Gatton, Chair, United Soybean Board.

On the last day of Soy Connext 2026, Mr. Daniel Whitley, Administrator, Foreign Agricultural Service, USDA, addressed the delegates, followed by Mr. Juan Luciano, CEO, ADM, who highlighted the importance of an integrated soy value chain covering origination, processing, logistics and merchandising. This was followed by break-out session and there were insightful presentations from other distinguished leaders across the global soy value chain.

The summit concluded with remarks by Mr. Jim Sutter, CEO, USSEC, who emphasised the value of bringing U.S. soybean farmers, processors, traders, agribusinesses and international trade teams together to exchange knowledge and explore new opportunities. Mr. Sutter said attendees will depart with a clear perspective on the opportunities ahead and a look forward to what’s next. Mr. Sutter announced that Soy Connext 2027 will be held in New York, USA, from August 16–18, 2027.

Soy Connext 2026 was sponsored by several associations and companies; Illinois Soybean

Association, Indiana Soybean Alliance, Iowa Soybean Association, Ohio Soybean Council and South Dakota Soybean Council were the Platinum Sponsors. Cargill, Frey, The Delong Company, Nebraska Soybean Board, SOYLEIC and The Russell Marine Group were the Gold Sponsors. Kansas Soybean Association, Kentucky Soybean Board, North Dakota Soybean Council, Northern Soy, Tennessee Soybean Promotion Board and Wisconsin Soybean Marketing Board were the Silver Sponsors and SGS, Blue Grass Farms of Ohio Inc., CHS Inc., Insta-Pro International, US Identity Preserved

Alliance, International Feed Corporation, ADM, AGP, Arkansas Soybean Promotion Board, Bunge, Consolidated Grain & Barge, Fornazor, Hawkeye Gold Lcc, Minnesota Soybean Research, Perdue Agribusiness LLC, Poet, Ray-Mont Logistics America, Stone Arch Commodities, The Scoular Company, Trans Globe, US Nisshin Shokai Inc., Wheaton Grain Inc., were the Bronze Sponsors of Soy Connext 2026.

Market Intelligence and Risk Management
Following Soy Connext, the USSEC MENASA Trade Team participated in a “Risk Management and Market Awareness” Workshop on August 8 at the Hyatt Regency, Chicago.

Mr. Kevin Roepke, Executive Director, USSEC–MENASA, welcomed participants from the Middle East, North Africa and South Asia and introduced Mr. Guy H. Allen, Senior Economist.The workshop covered global agricultural commodity markets, soybean trade dynamics, supply-demand fundamentals, price discovery, market volatility, forecasting and practical risk-management strategies.

For India’s poultry, livestock, dairy and aquaculture sectors, such knowledge is increasingly important for managing feed ingredient availability, price fluctuations and long-term feed security.

From Iowa Soybean Fields to Feed Technology
Post conference, the delegation visited Grubbs Lands & Cattle Farm in Iowa State, and had good interaction with Mr. Brock Grubbs, a sixth-generation farmer producing soybean and corn across approximately 4,200 acres. The visit provided insights into precision agriculture, advanced genetics, technology and sustainable farming. Ms. Karen Long, Project Coordinator, Iowa Soybean Association, briefed the delegation on farming and sustainability practices.

Later the Trade Team visited the Kent Feed Mill and Grain Science Complex at Iowa State University, a modern facility integrating education, research, analytical laboratories and pilot-scale feed manufacturing. Dr. Dirk Maier, Professor and Director, Kent Feed Mill and Grain Science Complex, Dr. Camille Schroeder, Associate Director and Mr. A S M Younus Bhuiyan Sabbir, Assistant Manager of Grain Center, briefed the delegation on advancements in feed technology, grain science, research and industry-academia collaboration.

Strengthening U.S.–South Asia Partnerships
Thanks to Mr. Kevin Roepke, Executive Director (MENASA), U.S. Soybean Export Council, Mr. Franklin Manuel, India Market Lead, USSEC Ms. Deeba Giannoulis, Regional Food and Nutritional Security & Trade Strategy Leader–MENASA, Ms. Hibah Ameer, Regional Communications Lead–MENASA, Dr. Vijay Anand E. Pilli, Dr. Ashesh Bhattarai, Nepal Market Lead, Mr. Saram Bokhari, Pakistan Market Lead, Mr. KhaBiBur RahMan, Bangladesh Market Lead, Dr. Khurram Shahbaz, Regional Special Projects Facilitator, South Asia, Ms. Nikita Sharma, PMP, Ms. Dhanu Basavraj, Mr. Tara Singh Rawat, and all other members of the USSEC team for organizing this highly educational and informative program and for providing members of the MENASATrade Team with this valuable learning opportunity. Initiatives like these play a vital role in enhancing industry knowledge, strengthening international partnerships, and fostering sustainable growth across the global agricultural and animal protein sectors.

From soybean farms in Illinois and Iowa States to global

discussions during Soy Connext 2026 in Chicago and advanced feed and grain research visit at Iowa State University, offered valuable insights into the U.S. soybean value chain.

As India, the United States and other countries work to meet the growing global demand for affordable and nutritious protein, collaboration in feed security, technology, sustainability, research and trade can play an important role. The journey through the U.S. soybean and feed ecosystem therefore offered much more than an understanding of American agriculture. It provided a broader perspective on how innovation, farmer leadership, scientific research, market intelligence and international cooperation can come together to build more resilient, competitive and sustainable food and feed systems for the future.

Dr. Partha P. Biswas, Former Associate Professor & HoD,

Because more poultry meat and eggs are being produced worldwide, people are asking for better, more sustainable ways to farm. This means finding new and better ways to feed animals in the future. From 2000 to 2020, global egg production went up by more than 41%, increasing from 51 million to 87 million tonnes, with an average annual growth rate of 3%.In 2023, poultry meat production hit 145 million tonnes and is still rising. With 6.29 million tonnes produced in 2020, India is fast approaching the level of production in the USA (6.29 million tonnes) produced in 2020. With an average egg size slightly lower than that in the USA (average weight of a standard large chicken egg 56.7 grams (2 oz) in the USA as against 50 to 55 grams in India), the Indian egg sector estimated that they have already overtaken the USA in terms of the number of eggs produced. India produced 149.11 billion eggs in the 2024–25 period, while the United States produced approximately 105 billion eggs in 2025. This growth is making it more important to find sustainable ways to feed animals.Even though raising poultry is less harmful to the environment compared to other types of animal farming, it still has some negative effects, such as increasing global warming, making water too rich in nutrients (eutrophication), and making soil too acidic. Low-carbon poultry feed is now moving from just an idea to real, practical use. Feed is responsible for about 70% of the total carbon footprint in poultry farming, so it’s the biggest area where we can cut down on carbon emissions. To make poultry farming more sustainable, we need to change how we get, mix, and use feed. Soybean meal and fishmeal have been the main sources of protein for animals, used in everything from chicken farming to fish farming. But keeping on using them at the same levels is bad for the environment. The reason we’re looking for alternatives isn’t because these materials don’t work well for animals—they are very effective. It’s because they cause serious environmental and economic problems, especially for systems that try to be sustainable and manage fish resources properly.

CIRCULAR AND ALTERNATIVE INGREDIENTS
Producers are actively moving away from relying entirely on conventional corn and deforestation-linked soy. Feed formulations are increasingly incorporating agro-industrial by-products, former foodstuffs (circular feed), and alternative protein crops like rapeseed and peas.
Life Cycle Assessments show that feeds formulated with these by-products can have a carbon footprint nearly 40% lower than traditional raw material feeds.

THE “BIG THREE INGREDIENTS” OF POULTRY FEED
Poultry sector consumes ~60% of India’s maize (~20+ million tonnes annually).Soybean meal demand: ~6-7 million tonnes domestically. In commercial broiler and layer operations, dry fish meal is rarely used When added at strategic levels, typically 3-8% in starter feeds and 2-5% in grower phases, fish meal enhances palatability, encouraging birds to consume more feed during critical early stages. This increased intake, paired with high digestibility, results in superior weight gains and improved FCR. In the layer segment, specialized demand exists for producing enriched eggs. The long-chain n-3 fatty acids (like DHA) in marine lipids transfer efficiently into the yolk.

1. SOYBEAN MEAL (THE PROTEIN BASE) : Soybean meal is the main source of protein in chicken feed around the world, but it has a big impact on the environment. The protein in soybean meal is high in lysine, which is first limiting amino acid in most chicken diets. This makes it a great match for grains like corn and wheat. India does not allow growing or bringing in raw genetically modified (GM)soybeans or seeds. India’s soybean production fell a lot during the 2025-2026 growing season, reaching about 11 to 12.7 million tons, which is much lower than before, causing a serious shortage of supply. When there are not enough non-GM soybeans locally, they get them from certain African countries. Non-GM soybeans are more expensive than GM ones. Even though GM soybean meal has been allowed sometimes to meet the protein needs for animal feed, there are worries about the effects on the environment. These worries include carbon emissions from cutting down forests in important areas like the Amazon and Cerrado, more risks for climate change, loss of wildlife, and pollution from farm chemicals running into water.

2.CORN / MAIZE (THE ENERGY SOURCE) : Corn provides the bulk energy in most poultry diets. While corn generally has a lower carbon footprint per kilogram than soy, birds eat much more of it. The primary carbon issue with corn is its heavy reliance on synthetic nitrogen fertilizers. Manufacturing these fertilizers is extremely energy-intensive, and applying them to fields releases nitrous oxide (N₂O),a green house gas nearly 300 times more potent than carbon dioxide. Tractor fuel for plowing is another important issue.

3.FISH MEAL (THE SPECIALITY PROTEIN) : Though used in far smaller amounts (typically for young chicks or breeder birds), fish meal has a complex environmental footprint. The issue of TMA accumulation leading to a fishy flavor in brown-shelled eggs arises from a genetic defect in up to 10% of brown-feathered hens. Normally, TMA is oxidized in the liver into a harmless compound by the action of the enzyme trimethylamine oxidase. The synthesis of this enzyme depends on the expression of the FM03 gene, located on chromosome 8. In the case of anon-synonymous mutation in the FM03 gene (designated T3295),hens cannot oxidize TMA, which then accumulates in the yolk. Poultry diets restrict fish meal to 5-10% of total feed due to ecological inefficiencies. Fishmeal is sourced from small forage fish like anchovies and sardines, which are crucial to the marine food web. Overfishing these species endangers higher trophic levels, leading to decline predatory fish, marine mammals, and seabirds.Moreover, forage fish populations are vulnerable to climate change, causing unstable fishmeal supplies and significant price volatility.India is the third-largest producer and exporter of fishmeal. Fig.1:

Fig.1: Typical poultry feed mix

ECONOMIC HURDLES TO TRANSITION OF CIRCULAR PROTEINS
The transition to circular proteins, such as microbial biomass, insect meal, or fermented agro-industrial waste, is essential for stabilizing ecosystems and is crucial for a sustainable livestock industry. However, commercial feed mills face significant economic barriers due to scale, commodity pricing, and supply chain maturity, making it challenging to replace traditional soybean meal. Here are the primary economic hurdles commercial mills face today:

THE PRICE PARITY GAP
Decades of agricultural subsidies, optimized supply chains, and massive economies of scale keep their prices relatively low and stable (historically ranging from $600-$750 per ton for soy, and $1,500 to $2,000 for fishmeal). In contrast, alternative proteins like Black Soldier Fly Larvae (BSFL) or microalgae carry immense initial capital expenditures (CapEx) to build high-tech bio-manufacturing or fermentation facilities.
Although insects like Black Soldier Fly Larvae (BSFL) raised on organic waste represent the ultimate circular protein, converting low-value biomass into high-value feed with a minimal land and water footprint. BSFL defatted protein meal and de-oiled powder generally trade between ₹110 and ₹250 per kg in Indian market & wholesale price roughly between $1,320 and $3,000 USD per ton.

SCALE AND VOLUME CONSISTENCY
Commercial feed mills produce feed continuously, requiring tens of thousands of tons of standardized ingredients every single month. Currently, very few alternative protein manufacturers can guarantee that volume without interruption. If a mill alters its highly specific formulation to include 5% insect meal, and the supplier falls short on delivery, the mill has to halt production, re-calibrate its software, and reformulate the diet using different ingredients. This downtime is extraordinarily expensive.

HIDDEN COSTS OF NUTRITIONAL REBALANCING
Soybean meal and fishmeal are highly dependable. Nutritionists have a clear understanding of how these ingredients function within the digestive systems of fish and birds. When a mill uses insect meal or a plant-based alternative to fishmeal, the amino acid profile changes. As a result, the mill needs to purchase additional synthetic amino acids, such as L-methionine or L-lysine, along with specific feed enzymes to compensate for the missing nutrients. This helps maintain the animals’ growth rates. Even if the base alternative protein is priced competitively, these added ingredients increase the overall cost of the final feed formulation.

RETROFITTING MILL INFRASTRUCTURE
Feed mills are designed to handle, grind, and pellet traditional grains and meals. However, alternative ingredients often have very different physical properties. For instance, some insect meals contain significantly more fat than solvent-extracted soybean meal. High levels of lipids can cause blockages in extruders, reduce the quality of feed pellets (making them prone to breaking during transport), and damage machinery. To effectively use these new ingredients at high levels, mills usually need to invest heavily in upgrading their equipment, such as adding new vacuum liquid-coating systems for fats. Many mills are reluctant to make these costly investments due to financial concerns.

REGULATORY APPROVAL COSTS
The global feed industry has strict rules to stop harmful substances from getting into the food chain. To get approval for a new type of protein, like microbial biomass or insect protein, used in animal feed, companies must do many expensive and time-consuming tests. These tests check for safety, look for heavy metals, and measure how well the protein is digested. This process can take many years.The cost of these tests ends up being passed on to the feed producers, which raises the cost of the ingredients. Unless these alternative proteins can be made in large amounts and sold at prices that are as good as soy or wild-caught fish, they are probably only used in special, high-end, or environmentally friendly feed products, not in regular, mass-produced feeds..Fig.2:

Fig.2: A picture showing how to raise chickens in a way that is good for the environment, people, and the poultry industry. It shows how being efficient with resources, taking care of the chickens’ health and happiness, keeping the farm safe from disease, making sure the chickens are productive, and making the whole food system strong and able to handle challenges are all connected and important.

THE GLOBAL RACE TO DECARBONIZE LIVESTOCK DIET

CIRCULAR INGREDIENTS & CARBON REDUCTION
Upcycling Waste: Using agricultural and slaughterhouse by-products (like DDGS, fruit pomace, and rendered fats) reduces reliance on land-intensive virgin crops and prevents landfill methane. The sustainable use of fruit and vegetable residues (FVRs) in poultry feed formulations has gained considerable attention due to their potential in advancing animal health However, certain challenge such as anti-nutritional factors, palatability issues, and processing techniques are also associated while incorporating these residues into poultry diets. Fermentation technologies create new opportunities to recover nutrients from agricultural residues and improve their value in poultry diets.

Carbon-Optimized Formulation: Modern feed software integrates Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) data to dynamically select ingredients based on their carbon footprint, not just cost and nutrition. LCA is a measurement of the emissions generated during its cultivation, processing, and transport. The software can calculate the exact environmental cost of using raw protein crops (like soy) versus supplementing with synthetic amino acids. It optimizes the diet to prevent protein overfeeding, which simultaneously lowers the feed’s initial GWP (Global Warming Potential) and reduces the nitrogen output (and offensive odors) in the poultry droppings.

THE SHIFT TO DDGS (DISTILLERS DRIED GRAINS WITH SOLUBLES)

Cost Advantage: Maize-based DDGS (₹17-₹20/kg) is significantly cheaper than soymeal (~₹40/kg), driving rapid adoption in the poultry industry.
Substitution Limits: DDGS can replace 25-30% of maize demand. Insect protein and algae can replace small portions of soy (5-10%).
Ongoing Conventional Reliance: Despite these alternatives, conventional ingredients will still make up 60-70% of overall feed requirements.
PRECISION NUTRITION
Targeted Diets: Formulating feed to match exact amino acid and energy needs improves the Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR).
Lower Emissions: Preventing protein overfeeding reduces nitrogen in manure, which directly lowers harmful nitrous oxide (N₂O) emissions downstream. Fig.3

Fig.3: Alternative protein sources for animal feed in a circular bioeconomy could include things like leftover materials from farming and food processing, meals made from insects and worms, leftovers from biorefineries, proteins made by microbes, and by-products from aquatic sources.

BETWEEN REALITY AND RHETORIC: LOW-CARBON POULTRY FEED
Moving from using a wide variety of ingredients in poultry feed to providing exactly what the birds need at each stage of growth is key to creating real low-carbon feed. While some talk about replacing soy with new ingredients, the actual science is about making tiny, precise changes. It’s about giving birds exactly the right nutrients they need, in the right amounts, so nothing is wasted. Real reductions in carbon emissions from poultry feed don’t come from using popular or fashionable ingredients. They come from making sure every part of the feed works as efficiently as possible. Ensuring every gram of feed is used well is the best way a farm can help the environment. Instead of providing too much crude protein, experts can use specific synthetic amino acids like L-Methionine, L-Lysine, and L-Threonine.This helps reduce the total amount of crude protein in the birds’ diets. By cutting crude protein by just 1.5%, farms can lower their carbon footprint by about 70 kg of CO₂ equivalent per ton.

CONCLUSION
Despite having significant potential, incorporating insects, algae, fermented products, and agricultural and industrial by-products into chicken feed continues to face multiple challenges. These challenges include scientific, technical, economic, and legal difficulties. For insects, key issues include variability in their nutritional content based on their diet, high chitin content that complicates protein digestion for chickens, higher production costs compared to traditional protein sources, and the absence of established international safety and quality standards. Consumer acceptance of chicken products derived from insect-based diets remains uncertain, which may hinder large-scale adoption. The effort to reduce the carbon footprint in chicken feed presents a mix of real benefits and exaggerated claims. While some measurable progress is achievable, the extent and impact of these improvements often fall short of what companies assert. Reducing the carbon footprint in chicken feed is neither a complete solution nor a total myth; it represents incremental steps within a broader system that is not sustainable. The true advantages come from the following areas:

– Integrating a circular bioeconomy into feed production
– Minimizing reliance on imported protein
– Utilizing waste materials effectively
– Developing better alternative ingredients

The industry must shift from making grand promises to achieving tangible improvements. This involves recognizing and celebrating small achievements, such as 5-10% reductions, while also being honest about limitations and working towards broader changes that extend beyond mere feed modifications. This conclusion reflects both the actual progress being made and the gap between marketing claims and real-world outcomes, offering a balanced assessment of the industry’s current position regarding sustainable feed promises. Hybrid feeding systems that combine commercial and alternative feed sources generally provide the most consistent results, although maintaining mineral balance is essential during the laying phase.

REFERENCES
1.Vincent Guyonnet (2025) : Chapter 2 World Egg Production and Marketing Trends, In book: Handbook of egg science and technology (pp.9-26) Publisher: CRC Press. DOI:10.1201/9781003254430-3.
2.Hairui Yu et al (2025): Sustainable poultry farming: mitigation of greenhouse gas emissions in poultry farming through nutritional and environmental modulations. World’s Poultry Science JournalVolume 81, 2025 – Issue 4: Pages 1081-1141.
3.Dheeraj Kumar et al (2025): Alternative feed ingredients in poultry diets: A review of nutritional potential, processing technologies, and challenges. International Journal of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry 2025; SP-10(9): 16-19.
4.Yadi Oktariansyah*& Mustafa Kamal (2026): Alternative Feed Use in Poultry Chickens: Impacts on Feed Efficiency and Physiological Parameters—A Systematic Literature Review. Journal of Natural Sciences ISSN 2721-5571 (Online) Vol.7, No.1 March 2026: 41-53.

A Positive Step Towards Ease of Doing Business in Poultry – Ranpal Dhanda, President, Poultry Federation of India

Government officials and poultry sector representatives during the productive meeting

It was a privilege for the Poultry Federation of India delegation, led by PFI President Mr. Ranpal Dhanda, to meet Shri Mahipal Dhanda, Hon’ble Education Minister, Govt. of Haryana, to discuss key issues impacting the growth and development of the poultry sector in the state.

PFI Team extends the sincere gratitude to Hon’ble Minister Shri Mahipal Dhanda Ji for his proactive support and for facilitating a high-level meeting with Mr. Anurag Rastogi (IAS) Chief Secretary, Government of Haryana and other senior officials Mr. Arun Kumar Gupta, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister, Mr. Vinay Kumar, Chairman, Pollution Control Board and Dr. Prem Singh, Director, Animal Husbandry, Government of Haryana.

The delegation highlighted Haryana’s vital contribution to India’s poultry industry and submitted several recommendations aimed at improving the ease of doing business for poultry farmers. Poultry Federation of India Team is pleased that the Hon’ble Chief Secretary responded positively and directed the concerned departments to take action on several important reforms, including:
Simplification of Pollution Control Board guidelines for poultry farms.
Removal of Market Committee Fee on maize and bajra procured from other states, with an assurance of resolution within 10–15 days.
Exemption from Change of Land Use (CLU) requirements for poultry farms.
Promotion of egg consumption through the Sports Department and other government departments.
Formation of a Poultry Development Committee with representation from the poultry industry to strengthen policy formulation and address sectoral challenges.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Ranpal Dhanda, President, Poultry Federation of India, expressed gratitude to the Hon’ble Education Minister, the Hon’ble Chief Secretary, Principal Secretary, Director Animal Husbandry and other Government officials for their positive and constructive approach. These initiatives will reduce unnecessary regulatory hurdles, improve the ease of doing business, encourage investment, create employment opportunities, and further strengthen Haryana’s poultry sector.

The Poultry Federation of India looks forward to working closely with the Government of Haryana to translate these commitments into meaningful reforms that will benefit poultry farmers and contribute to the sustainable growth of one of the state’s most important agricultural sectors. Together, we are building a stronger, more progressive, and farmer-friendly poultry industry.

The 27th edition of World Poultry Congress (WPC) 2026 organised by the World’s Poultry Science Association (WPSA) at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, Toronto, Canada, from July 13–17, 2026 was recognised as the world’s premier gathering for poultry science and technology, WPC 2026 had brought together a good delegates comprising poultry scientists, researchers, academicians, veterinarians, industry leaders, production specialists, policymakers, and students from more than 85 countries. The congress served as an exceptional platform for exchanging knowledge, showcasing cutting-edge innovations and strengthening international collaborations that will shape the future of the poultry industry.

The scientific and technical program covered a wide spectrum of critical topics including genetics and breeding, poultry nutrition, health and disease prevention, animal welfare, sustainability, precision production technologies, processing innovations and global food security. At a time when the poultry sector is addressing evolving challenges related to disease management, climate resilience, sustainability and feeding a growing global population, forums like WPC continue to play a pivotal role in driving science-based solutions and technological advancement.

Held once every four years under the auspices of the World’s Poultry Science Association (WPSA), the World Poultry Congress remains one of the most influential international platforms dedicated to advancing poultry science and industry worldwide.

The success of WPC 2026 was made possible through the support of leading global organizations, including Elanco and Cargill Animal Nutrition and Health as Platinum Sponsors, Merck Animal Health and Zoetis as Gold Sponsors, Anitox, Evonik, Novus International, Inc, Huvepharma; Trouw Nutrition, Novonesis Animal Health and Nutrition, Nor-Feed, Insighter Biotechnology, JBT Marel, Adisseo, Jefo Biotechnology, Olmix Biotechnology Research and Vtagro as Bronze Sponsors and was supported by Jamesway, Hendrix Genetics Layers, Egg Farmers of Canada, Chicken Farmers of Canada, Turkey Farmers of Canada, Canadian Hatching Egg Producers, Alternative Design Manufacturing and Suply, Inc., Allix3, US-RSPE, JRS Livestock Applications and Hy-line International. WPC-2016 was further supported by esteemed media partners including Canadian Poultry Magazine, WATT Poultry, Agri Insight, Poultry Creations, Gulf Poultry, Modern Poultry, and aviNews International.

The exhibitors displayed their promotional material in Exhibit Hall and the seminars / presentations were in various session rooms. The poster and oral presentation sessions represented the cutting edge of global poultry research. Forty plus speakers from six continents, hundreds of abstracts across every major area of poultry science. During World Poultry Congress 2026, it was my privilege to meet distinguished poultry leaders, scientists, researchers, innovators and industry colleagues from around the world and explored new opportunities for collaboration that will contribute to the sustainable growth and future of the global poultry sector.

My sincere congratulations to the World’s Poultry Science Association (WPSA), the organising committee, sponsors, exhibitors, and everyone who worked tirelessly to make WPC 2026 an outstanding success.As one memorable chapter comes to an end, we now look forward to the 28th World Poultry Congress, which will be held in Tokyo, Japan, from July 21–25, 2030.

The 9th edition of the Global Talks Series features Dr. Bernhard Eckel, Vice President and Co-Founder of Dr. Eckel Animal Nutrition, Germany, a globally recognized leader in feed additive innovation and sustainable animal nutrition. This edition explores Dr. Eckel’s journey from his roots in practical farming to becoming one of the industry’s most respected voices in animal nutrition. With more than three decades of experience, he has played a pivotal role in advancing phytogenic feed additives, feed hygiene, gut health solutions, and nutritional technologies that support animal welfare, production efficiency, and sustainable livestock farming worldwide. A trained farmer and agricultural scientist with a doctorate in Animal Nutrition from the Technical University of Munich-Weihenstephan, Dr. Eckel continues to inspire the global feed and livestock industries through scientific innovation, practical expertise, and a strong commitment to sustainable protein production.

A Lifelong Passion for Animal Nutrition
Dr. Bernhard Eckel’s journey into animal nutrition began on a family farm, where he developed a deep understanding of agriculture from an early age. His practical training as a farmer revealed the close relationship between feed quality, animal health, productivity, and farm profitability. This realization inspired him to pursue agricultural science and specialize in animal nutrition.

Throughout his career, he has remained motivated by the opportunity to bridge scientific knowledge and practical application. For Dr. Eckel, animal nutrition represents a unique intersection of biology, economics, and sustainability, offering opportunities to improve production efficiency while simultaneously supporting animal welfare, environmental stewardship, and global food security.

Three Decades of Transformation in Feed Additives
Reflecting on more than thirty years of industry experience, Dr. Eckel identifies the transition away from antibiotic growth promoters as one of the most significant developments in animal nutrition. This shift fundamentally changed livestock production and accelerated innovation in scientifically validated alternatives, particularly phytogenic feed additives.

The industry’s growing emphasis on preventive health approaches has strengthened efforts to improve animal resilience, gut health, and overall performance. At the same time, the understanding that animal welfare and production efficiency can coexist has become increasingly accepted. Modern livestock systems now recognize that sustainable productivity depends on maintaining high welfare standards.

Consumer expectations have also evolved considerably. Today’s feed solutions must not only deliver performance but also meet demands for sustainability, safety, transparency, and economic viability.

The Growing Importance of Phytogenic Feed Additives
According to Dr. Eckel, the market for advanced feed additives will continue to expand in response to regulatory pressures, sustainability targets, and the need for efficient animal protein production.

Phytogenic feed additives are gaining increasing attention due to their broad range of functional benefits. Their antimicrobial properties, support for digestive health, and contribution to production stability make them valuable tools for modern livestock producers. As global markets become more volatile and producers seek greater resilience within production systems, plant-based nutritional solutions are expected to play an increasingly important role.


While regional differences will continue to influence adoption patterns, significant growth opportunities are anticipated across Asia and Latin America, where livestock production systems are undergoing rapid modernization and intensification.

Future Focus Areas: Gut Health, Feed Hygiene, and Endotoxin Management
Looking ahead, Dr. Eckel believes that future innovation will increasingly focus on supporting gut health and improving the resilience of production systems under challenging conditions. The next generation of feed additives will likely combine multiple functional benefits within a single solution, delivering antimicrobial support, microbiota stabilization, and improved digestion simultaneously.

Producers are increasingly seeking integrated solutions that address several production challenges while remaining practical and cost-effective.

Feed hygiene remains another critical area of focus. During the Dr. Eckel World Tour seminar in Bangkok, discussions highlighted the role of improved feed hygiene in reducing the risk of African Swine Fever transmission through contaminated feed. This continues to be an important issue in many regions worldwide and emphasizes the need for stronger biosecurity throughout the feed chain.

Equally important is the growing awareness of endotoxin management. Once viewed primarily as a livestock concern, endotoxins are now receiving increasing attention within the aquaculture sector. Discussions during the Aquatic Conference at VIV Health & Nutrition Asia demonstrated the industry’s growing recognition of the impact endotoxins can have on animal health and production performance.

“The future of livestock production lies in combining science, innovation, and sustainability. By strengthening gut health, feed hygiene, and animal welfare, we can create more resilient and efficient food systems for generations to come.”

— Dr. Bernhard Eckel

Shaping the Future of Animal Nutrition
Dr. Eckel believes the future of animal nutrition will be driven by the need to balance efficiency, resilience, and sustainability while ensuring reliable protein production in an increasingly uncertain world.

Several key trends are expected to define the industry’s future. Greater emphasis on gut health, wider adoption of multifunctional feed additives, and continued efforts to reduce antibiotic use will remain central priorities. Transparency and traceability across the livestock value chain will become increasingly important as consumers seek greater confidence in food production systems.

At the same time, digital technologies and artificial intelligence are expected to transform decision-making processes. Data-driven management tools will enable producers to optimize nutrition strategies, improve efficiency, and manage production complexity with greater precision.

For Dr. Bernhard Eckel, the future of animal nutrition lies in combining scientific innovation with practical solutions that strengthen animal health, support sustainable livestock production, and contribute to global food security.

1. Introduction
Nutrition forms the cornerstone of human health, productivity, and national development. A country’s demographic dividend can only be realised when its population enjoys adequate nutrition throughout the life cycle. India, home to nearly one-fifth of the world’s population, has made extraordinary progress in food production since the Green Revolution. Today, the nation is largely self-sufficient in cereal production, ensuring food availability for millions through extensive public distribution systems.

However, the concept of food security has evolved beyond ensuring adequate calorie intake. Modern nutrition science emphasizes that food security without nutritional security cannot guarantee healthy populations. Balanced diets require adequate amounts of proteins, essential fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, and other bioactive compounds that support optimal growth, immunity, metabolism, and cognitive development.

Protein deficiency remains one of India’s most under-recognized nutritional challenges. Although the protein-energy malnutrition has declined compared with previous decades, suboptimal protein intake persists among vulnerable population groups. Many Indian diets continue to rely heavily on cereals that provide energy but relatively limited quantities of high-quality protein and certain essential amino acids. Consequently, children experience impaired physical growth, women face increased nutritional vulnerability during pregnancy and lactation, elderly individuals lose muscle mass more rapidly, and recovery from illness becomes slower.

India’s epidemiological transition further complicates the challenge. While undernutrition continues to affect millions, obesity, diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases are increasing rapidly. This “double burden of malnutrition” demands dietary strategies that improve nutritional quality without contributing to excessive caloric intake.

Animal-source foods provide highly bioavailable nutrients that complement cereal-based diets. Among these, eggs and chicken offer particularly attractive advantages because they are nutritionally dense, affordable, culturally accepted across large sections of society, and can be produced efficiently with relatively modest environmental impacts. Their integration into regular diets represents one of the most practical approaches to improving protein intake at the population level.

2. India’s Nutrition Gap: A Continuing Public Health Challenge
India’s nutritional landscape reflects a paradox. Despite becoming one of the world’s leading producers of milk, eggs, poultry meat, cereals, fruits, and vegetables, nutritional deficiencies remain widespread. Economic growth alone has not translated into equitable access to diverse and balanced diets.

The concept of the “nutrition gap” extends beyond hunger. It refers to the difference between the nutrients people require for healthy living and those they actually consume. This gap encompasses inadequate intake of proteins, vitamins, minerals, and essential fatty acids.

Several factors contribute to India’s persistent protein gap: eg. Heavy dependence on cereal-based diets, Limited dietary diversity, Socioeconomic inequalities, Regional disparities in food availability, Inadequate nutrition awareness, Cultural and religious dietary preferences, Rising food prices affecting access to nutrient-rich foods etc.

Protein inadequacy is particularly concerning because proteins are indispensable for virtually every physiological function. Unlike carbohydrates and fats, proteins supply essential amino acids that cannot be synthesized by the human body and therefore must be obtained through food.

Children suffering from inadequate protein intake often exhibit poor linear growth, delayed cognitive development, weakened immune responses, and reduced educational performance. In adults, chronic protein deficiency contributes to diminished work capacity, slower wound healing, increased susceptibility to infections, and reduced muscle strength. Among older adults, inadequate protein accelerates sarcopenia, frailty, falls, and disability.

Women represent another nutritionally vulnerable group. Pregnancy and lactation substantially increase protein requirements. Inadequate maternal protein intake adversely affects fetal growth, birth weight, neonatal survival, and long-term health outcomes.

India also continues to face widespread deficiencies of iron, vitamin B12, zinc, vitamin D, and other micronutrients that frequently coexist with inadequate protein intake. These overlapping deficiencies magnify health risks and reduce economic productivity.

3. Understanding Protein: More Than a Bodybuilding Nutrient
Public perception often associates protein exclusively with athletes and bodybuilders. Contemporary nutritional science, however, recognizes protein as an essential nutrient required by every individual from conception through old age.

Proteins are composed of twenty amino acids, nine of which are considered essential because the human body cannot synthesize them. These essential amino acids must be supplied through the diet in appropriate proportions.

Protein performs numerous vital biological functions: eg. Growth and repair of tissues, Formation of muscles, skin, hair, and connective tissues, Production of enzymes and hormones, Synthesis of antibodies for immune defense, Maintenance of blood proteins, Transport of oxygen and nutrients, Regulation of fluid balance, Maintenance of healthy bones, Support of cognitive function and neurotransmitter synthesis etc.

The quality of dietary protein depends on both amino acid composition and digestibility. High-quality proteins contain all essential amino acids in sufficient quantities and are readily digested and absorbed.

Animal-source proteins generally possess superior digestibility and amino acid profiles compared with most plant proteins. While plant-based diets can meet protein requirements when carefully planned, combining cereals and pulses often requires larger quantities of food and may still provide lower bioavailability for certain nutrients.

4. Why Protein Quality Matters
Meeting daily protein requirements involves more than consuming sufficient grams of protein. Equally important is the biological quality of that protein. Protein quality is evaluated using indices such as the Protein Digestibility Corrected Amino Acid Score (PDCAAS) and the Digestible Indispensable Amino Acid Score (DIAAS). These measures assess both amino acid composition and digestibility.

Egg protein has long been regarded as one of the highest-quality dietary proteins, often serving as the reference standard against which other proteins are compared. Its amino acid profile closely matches human physiological requirements, and its digestibility exceeds 95%.

Chicken meat likewise provides highly digestible complete protein rich in leucine and other branched-chain amino acids that stimulate muscle protein synthesis. These characteristics make eggs and chicken particularly valuable for growing children, pregnant women, athletes, recovering patients, and older adults.

Beyond protein itself, eggs and chicken deliver numerous complementary nutrients that enhance overall nutritional status. Eggs supply choline, lutein, zeaxanthin, vitamins A, D, E, B12, riboflavin, selenium, and iodine. Chicken provides haem iron, zinc, phosphorus, niacin, pyridoxine, and vitamin B12, all of which support immunity, neurological function, and metabolic health.

The synergy of complete protein with highly bioavailable micronutrients distinguishes eggs and chicken from many other dietary protein sources, making them powerful tools for combating hidden hunger and improving population health.

5. Eggs: Nature’s Most Complete Functional Food
Among all naturally available foods, the egg occupies a unique position in human nutrition. Often referred to as “nature’s perfect package,” an egg delivers nearly every nutrient required for life, except vitamin C, in a highly digestible and bioavailable form. For decades, eggs have served as the reference protein against which the quality of other dietary proteins is compared because of their balanced amino acid composition and excellent digestibility.

A standard hen’s egg contains approximately 6–7 g of high-quality protein, with all nine essential amino acids present in proportions closely matching human physiological requirements. Importantly, egg protein exhibits a Protein Digestibility Corrected Amino Acid Score (PDCAAS) approaching the maximum value and a Digestible Indispensable Amino Acid Score (DIAAS) that places it among the highest-quality dietary proteins available.

Beyond protein, eggs are a rich source of nutrients that address several common deficiencies in Indian diets:
– Choline, essential for brain development, memory, and liver function.
– Vitamin B12, critical for red blood cell formation and neurological health.
– Vitamin D, important for calcium metabolism and skeletal integrity.
– Vitamin A, supporting vision and immunity.
– Riboflavin, biotin, folate, and pantothenic acid for energy metabolism.
– Selenium and iodine, important antioxidants and regulators of thyroid function.
– Lutein and zeaxanthin, carotenoids associated with improved eye health and reduced risk of age-related macular degeneration.

Eggs also contain high-quality fats, including phospholipids that support cellular membrane function and neurological development. Contrary to earlier concerns, contemporary nutritional research indicates that moderate egg consumption has little adverse effect on cardiovascular risk in healthy individuals, and eggs are now widely recognized as an integral component of balanced diets.

6. Chicken Meat: Affordable Lean Protein for a Healthier Nation
Chicken meat has emerged as one of the fastest-growing animal-source foods globally, driven by its nutritional value, affordability, versatility, and comparatively efficient production system. In India, poultry meat consumption has increased steadily over the past two decades, reflecting rising incomes, urbanization, changing lifestyles, and greater awareness of dietary protein.

Chicken provides approximately 20–24 g of high-quality protein per 100 g of edible meat, making it one of the most concentrated natural protein sources available. Importantly, this protein contains all essential amino acids required for tissue growth, enzyme synthesis, immune function, and muscle maintenance.

Unlike many red meats, skinless chicken contains relatively low levels of saturated fat while supplying substantial amounts of Vitamin B3 (Niacin), Vitamin B6, Vitamin B12, Phosphorus, Zinc, Selenium, Iron (highly bioavailable haem iron), These nutrients play indispensable roles in energy metabolism, immune competence, cognitive performance, oxygen transport, and antioxidant defence.

Health Advantages of Chicken Consumption
Growing evidence indicates that incorporating lean poultry into balanced diets offers multiple health benefits i.e. Supports healthy muscle development, Promotes satiety and healthy weight management, Helps preserve lean body mass during ageing, Facilitates recovery following illness and surgery, Contributes to improved immune function, Provides bioavailable iron and zinc essential for children and women, Supports optimal athletic performance.

For populations transitioning away from protein-deficient diets, chicken represents an economically viable option capable of substantially improving nutritional quality without excessive caloric intake.

7. Scientific Evidence Linking Animal Protein to Improved Nutrition
The importance of animal-source foods in combating undernutrition has been demonstrated across numerous epidemiological studies, randomized trials, and systematic reviews.

Child Growth and Development
Children receiving diets supplemented with eggs demonstrate improvements in Linear growth, Weight gain, Cognitive performance, Language development, School attendance and Physical activity.

The inclusion of eggs in complementary feeding programmes has been associated with reductions in childhood stunting and improved nutrient adequacy. Similarly, diets incorporating poultry meat improve iron status, enhance haemoglobin concentrations, and reduce the prevalence of anaemia in vulnerable populations.

Muscle Health
Leucine, abundant in eggs and chicken, acts as a powerful stimulator of muscle protein synthesis. Adequate intake helps maintain skeletal muscle during ageing, prevents frailty, and accelerates recovery after illness or hospitalization.

Immune Function
Protein deficiency compromises immune competence by reducing antibody production, impairing immune cell proliferation, and weakening resistance to infections. Eggs and chicken provide both protein and immune-supportive micronutrients including zinc, selenium, vitamin A, and vitamin B12.

Maternal and Neonatal Health
Adequate maternal protein intake improves fetal growth, birth weight, placental development, and infant survival while reducing risks associated with intrauterine growth restriction.

Cognitive Development
Nutrients abundant in eggs—particularly choline, iodine, vitamin B12, and high-quality protein—are increasingly recognized for supporting brain development, memory formation, and learning capacity during early childhood.

8. Poultry Sector: Powering Nutrition, Livelihoods, and Economic Growth
India’s poultry industry has evolved into one of the country’s most dynamic agricultural enterprises. Through advances in genetics, nutrition, disease control, housing, and supply chain management, the industry has achieved remarkable gains in productivity while keeping eggs and chicken affordable for consumers.
Today, poultry contributes substantially to:
– National food and nutrition security.
– Agricultural GDP.
– Rural employment.
– Women’s empowerment.
– Entrepreneurship development.
– Allied industries including feed manufacturing, veterinary pharmaceuticals, equipment production, processing, logistics, and retail.

Millions of farmers depend directly or indirectly on poultry production for their livelihoods. The sector provides opportunities for landless labourers, smallholder farmers, women self-help groups, and rural youth, making it a powerful instrument for inclusive economic development.

Women’s Empowerment
Backyard poultry remains particularly important for rural women. Income generated from egg and chicken sales often supports household nutrition, children’s education, healthcare expenditures, and financial independence. Numerous development programmes have demonstrated that poultry farming can enhance women’s decision-making capacity while improving household dietary diversity.

Employment Generation
The poultry value chain creates employment across multiple sectors: eg. Hatcheries, Feed manufacturing, Veterinary services, Equipment manufacturing, Farm management, Transportation, Processing plants, Cold chain logistics, Retail marketing, Food service industries As demand for animal protein increases, these employment opportunities are expected to expand further.

9. Barriers to Achieving “Protein in Every Plate”
Despite clear nutritional advantages, several obstacles continue to limit egg and chicken consumption in India.
Economic Constraints
Although eggs and chicken are among the most affordable animal-source foods, financial limitations still restrict access for many low-income households, especially during periods of food inflation.
Nutrition Awareness
Many consumers remain unaware of daily protein requirements or the health benefits associated with regular consumption of high-quality protein. Misconceptions regarding cholesterol, body weight, and dietary protein continue to influence food choices.
Cultural and Religious Diversity
India’s remarkable cultural diversity shapes dietary practices. While vegetarianism is respected and remains an important component of Indian food culture, many populations that do consume animal-source foods still consume eggs and poultry below nutritionally desirable levels.
Regional Inequalities
Consumption varies considerably across states due to differences in production infrastructure, market accessibility, purchasing power, cultural preferences, and public nutrition programmes.
Supply Chain Challenges
Inadequate cold-chain infrastructure, transportation losses, fluctuating feed prices, disease outbreaks, and seasonal market volatility can affect affordability and availability, particularly in remote regions. Addressing these challenges requires coordinated efforts involving policymakers, public health professionals, educators, researchers, and the poultry industry to ensure equitable access to affordable, safe, and nutritious protein sources.

10. Policy Initiatives and the National Nutrition Agenda
India has recognized the importance of nutrition as a cornerstone of human development. Over the past decade, several flagship programmes have sought to improve nutritional outcomes, particularly among women and children. However, the emphasis has gradually shifted from food security to nutrition security, recognizing that adequate calories alone cannot eliminate malnutrition.

POSHAN Abhiyaan
The POSHAN Abhiyaan (National Nutrition Mission) represents India’s flagship initiative to reduce stunting, undernutrition, anaemia, and low birth weight. The programme promotes convergence among multiple ministries while emphasizing behavioural change communication, growth monitoring, maternal nutrition, and dietary diversity.
Incorporating affordable, high-quality proteins such as eggs into supplementary nutrition programmes can significantly enhance the nutritional impact of POSHAN interventions.

Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS)
ICDS remains one of the world’s largest early childhood nutrition programmes. Anganwadi centres provide supplementary nutrition to pregnant women, lactating mothers, and children below six years of age.

Several Indian states have successfully included eggs in ICDS meals, demonstrating improvements in dietary quality, child acceptability, and programme effectiveness. Wider adoption of this evidence-based intervention could substantially improve protein intake among vulnerable populations.

PM POSHAN (Mid-Day Meal Scheme)
The school meal programme reaches millions of children every day and offers an excellent opportunity to address childhood protein deficiency.
States that provide eggs in school meals have reported:
– Improved attendance.
– Better student satisfaction.
– Enhanced nutritional quality of meals.
– Increased dietary protein intake.
– Improved growth indicators.
Expanding egg inclusion while respecting regional dietary preferences can strengthen India’s investment in human capital.

11. Strategies for Achieving “Protein in Every Plate”
Addressing India’s protein gap requires coordinated action across agriculture, health, education, food industries, and public policy.
1. Promote Nutrition Literacy
Public awareness campaigns should emphasize: Daily protein requirements, Importance of protein quality, Benefits of eggs and lean poultry, Protein needs across different age groups, Dispelling myths surrounding egg consumption.
Nutrition education should begin in schools and continue through community health programmes.
2. Strengthen School Nutrition Programmes
Including eggs in school feeding programmes can simultaneously improve: Child nutrition, School attendance, Learning outcomes, Cognitive development, Long-term productivity.
Where eggs cannot be provided because of cultural preferences, nutritionally equivalent alternatives should be offered to ensure that children receive adequate protein.
3. Improve Maternal Nutrition
Pregnant and lactating women require substantially higher protein intake. Maternal nutrition programmes should prioritize affordable sources of complete protein, including eggs where culturally acceptable, alongside counselling on balanced diets and micronutrient supplementation.
4. Expand Poultry Production Sustainably
Increasing poultry production through scientific farming practices can improve affordability while minimizing environmental impacts.
Priority areas include: Improved genetics, Precision nutrition, Disease surveillance, Vaccination programmes, Climate-resilient housing, Waste recycling, Renewable energy adoption, Digital technologies for farm management etc.
5. Support Smallholder Poultry Farming
Backyard and small-scale poultry systems remain critical for rural livelihoods and household nutrition.
Policies should strengthen: Access to quality chicks, Veterinary healthcare, Credit facilities, Farmer producer organizations, Women’s self-help groups, Local hatcheries, Market linkages.
6. Reduce Supply Chain Losses
Investments in: Cold-chain infrastructure, Modern processing, Refrigerated transport, Food safety systems, Value-added poultry products etc. can improve year-round availability while reducing post-harvest losses.
7. Encourage Public-Private Partnerships
Collaboration among government agencies, research institutions, universities, poultry industries, non-governmental organizations, and international development agencies can accelerate nutrition-sensitive interventions and evidence-based policymaking.

12. Summary
India stands at a pivotal moment in its journey toward achieving comprehensive nutrition security. While remarkable gains have been made in agricultural production and food availability, ensuring access to high-quality dietary protein remains a pressing public health priority. The persistence of protein inadequacy, micronutrient deficiencies, childhood stunting, maternal undernutrition, and age-related muscle loss underscores the need for nutrition-sensitive strategies that extend beyond calorie sufficiency.

Eggs and chicken offer a compelling solution to this challenge. They provide highly digestible, complete proteins together with an array of essential vitamins, minerals, and bioactive compounds that support growth, cognitive development, immunity, reproductive health, and healthy ageing. Their affordability, wide availability, and compatibility with diverse dietary patterns make them particularly well suited to addressing India’s nutritional needs across all stages of life.

Equally important is the contribution of the poultry sector to livelihoods, rural development, women’s empowerment, and economic growth. As one of the most efficient livestock production systems, poultry offers an environmentally responsible pathway for expanding access to animal-source foods while minimizing pressure on natural resources.

The vision of “Protein in Every Plate” is therefore more than a nutritional aspiration—it is a national development strategy. Achieving this vision requires coordinated efforts involving government, academia, healthcare professionals, educators, the poultry industry, civil society, and consumers. Investments in nutrition education, scientific poultry production, evidence-based public policies, and inclusive food programmes will not only improve dietary quality but also strengthen human capital, economic productivity, and national resilience.

Ultimately, bridging India’s nutrition gap is not simply about increasing food production; it is about ensuring that every citizen, irrespective of geography or socioeconomic status, has regular access to safe, affordable, and nutrient-rich foods. Eggs and chicken can play a transformative role in this endeavour, helping build a healthier, stronger, and more prosperous India—one protein-rich plate at a time.

In this exclusive interaction with Mr. Ricky Thaper discusses the critical issues shaping India’s poultry sector, including feed security, ethanol mandates, regulatory reforms, import policies, and sustainable strategies for future growth and competitiveness.

Poultry Creations: With the rapid modernization of India’s poultry sector, how do you foresee domestic feed-grain demand evolving in direct competition with ethanol mandates?

Ricky Thaper: At present, the Indian poultry industry, which has seen 7% to 8% annual growth in the last decade is valued at over $ 30 billion. The industry has transformed itself from following conventional farming practices to a modern commercial production system. However sustained supply of feed ingredients remains a key challenge. Poultry feed mostly consist of Maize (corn) 50-55% and Soybean Meal 20-25% and rest other feed ingredients and feed additives & nutrients.

Stating that there has been increasing diversion of maize towards industrial use and ethanol production, Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) in the vision document for poultry sector in 2047 had also stated “the current growth level of maize and soybean production in the country will be insufficient to meet the demand of the poultry industry.” The CII has urged the government to allow imports of genetically modified (GM) maize and soybean because of ‘unprecedented increase’ in feed prices.

The demand supply situation has entered a new phase especially maize, a key ingredient, has become India’s single-largest feedstock for ethanol. With growing demand for maize following the government’s future plans to expand ethanol blending program, may result in lesser supplies for poultry, dairy and aqua feed.

Poultry Creations: What regulatory alignments are most critical right now to ensure stable, cost-effective grain supplies for the growing poultry and livestock industry?

Ricky Thaper: To meet the growing needs of the livestock feed, the government needs to have an open import policy for sourcing maize and soybean meal from the various countries, irrespective of whether the crops are GM variants or not. With the competing demand from ethanol, starch and other sectors, feed ingredients imports should be open without any restrictions. In August, 2021, the government had relaxed import rules to allow the first shipment of 1.2 million ton of genetically modified (GM) soybean meal to support the domestic poultry industry after a record spike in feed prices. Poultry industry has urged the Government repeatedly to allow both import and cultivation of GM maize and soybeans to fulfil the requirement of these two major feed ingredients in the coming years. The sustainable supplies of feed in coming years would be crucial for the growth of the poultry industry.
Currently annual animal feed production is estimated close to 56 million tons which includes dairy feed 16.5 million tons, aqua feed 2.5 million tons and poultry feed 37 million tons. The feed ingredients are mostly maize and soybean meal About 60-65% of the output of maize is used as poultry and livestock feed while rest is used for industrial use.

In the 2025-26 crop year (July-June), the agriculture ministry has estimated maize production at 52 million tons while output estimate by trade is around 48 million tons. As per industry estimate, poultry industry used around 26 million tons of maize in feed while around 5.5 million tons used for dairy feed while around 6 million tons was used by starch industry and only 1.5 MT is used for human consumption. 1 million tons in alcohol and about 1 million tons in seed and wastage. Balance 8-10 MT of maize was diverted for ethanol production.

Poultry Creations: How can corporate agribusiness interests and national trade policies better synchronize to protect poultry margins during periods of commodity price spikes?

Ricky Thaper: The poultry sector is a vital sector of the livestock industry which provides employment to over 6 million people. While industry is witnessing a steady pace, sustainable feed supplies at reasonable prices would be crucial for the growth of the sector as feed prices constitute over 65% to 70% of the cost of production. Any increase in feed prices hit the margins of poultry farmers. The government has been focussing on growth of agriculture and allied sectors. There are several industries which require maize at their key raw material so the government should focus on. The current growth level of maize production in the country will be insufficient to meet the demand of the poultry industry in coming years.
The soybean production cycle in India for the year 2025–26 has seen a notable downturn compared to the 2024–25 season. As per the data from the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare (MoA & FW) or the Soybean Processors Association of India (SOPA), the consensus is clear: production fell sharply due to a combination of lower acreage, extreme weather and falling yields.

Government Estimate is 12.60 Million Tons and the Industry Estimate (SOPA Ground Survey) | is11.03 Million Tons The Government numbers track total theoretical agricultural output, while SOPA’s numbers heavily filter for commercial availability, market arrivals and clean seed weight available to crushing mills.

Three main factors compressed the 2025–26 harvest compared to the previous year:
1. Reduced Cultivation Acreage – Farmers actively shifted some of their land away from soy due to weaker market-yard prices observed mid-2025, from 118.31 Lakh Hectares (2024–25 Acreage) to 112.14 Lakh Hectares (2025–26 Acreage), a decline of roughly 5.2%

2. Depressed Yields per Hectare – Climate abnormalities took a heavy toll on the plants during critical growth phases. The national average crop yield dropped from 1,089 kg per hectare in 2024–25 down to 983 kg per hectare in 2025–26.

3. Weather Anomalies and Crop Disease – Excessive & Uneven Rains: The monsoon brought flash water-logging in low-lying areas during the initial phase, causing localized washouts that required re-sowing. Later, prolonged heavy rains during the critical harvesting time damaged crop quality, yielding smaller grain sizes and higher moisture content. Pest Pressures: Key growing belts saw infestations of Yellow Mosaic Virus and aerial blight, which severely stunted pod development.

Because total commercial availability for crushing fell dramatically to10.40 Million Tons (compared to over 12.32 Million Tons in 2024–25), the domestic crushing industry has faced severe supply shortages. This raw material deficit is the primary driver behind the rocketing local meal prices and the collapse of the export trade.

Another major challenging area is the dried distillers’ grains with soluble (DDGS) from maize, a key by-product of ethanol production, are not of desired quality for feed and the toxins levels are high. The challenge is that this toxin affected DDGS when used in feed will set into food chain.

Poultry Creations: What sustainable growth models are proving successful in insulating the Indian poultry sector from global supply chain shocks?

Ricky Thaper: The poultry industry, like other agriculture sectors, is subject to the supply and demand scenario, market structures and Government policies. An open import policy on animal feed ingredient would go a long way meeting the demand of livestock and poultry feed. Several south Asian countries including Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal and Sri Lanka have allowed imports of GM Maize and GM soybean / soymeal. The GM soybean / soybean meal and Maize imports should be allowed with a fixed quota during off or non-harvesting season here so that it does not adversely impact the farmers’ price realisation. Reduction in import duties on these feed ingredients in the poultry feed should be announced soon.

As the demand and supply gap between consumption and production of feed grows, liberalised imports of soybean meal and maize would mitigate the problems and keep the prices under check. With the competing sector demanding maize supplies, liberalising policy on import is of paramount importance for sustainable growth of the poultry sector which is growing at a steady pace with the rising demand of protein enriched food.

Introduction
The poultry industry has emerged as one of the most dynamic and rapidly expanding segments of the livestock sector in India. Over the past few decades, the sector has transformed from a subsistence-level backyard activity into a highly organized and technologically driven industry. Poultry production plays a critical role in ensuring nutritional security by providing affordable sources of high-quality animal protein in the form of eggs and chicken meat. In addition, the sector contributes substantially to rural employment, income generation, and the growth of allied industries such as feed manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, hatcheries, and processing units. With a population exceeding 1.4 billion and steadily rising income levels, the domestic demand for poultry products has increased significantly. Despite the strong domestic market, India possesses substantial potential to expand its presence in international poultry trade. Globally, poultry meat is one of the fastest-growing sources of animal protein due to its relatively low cost, high nutritional value, and minimal cultural or religious restrictions. Consequently, many developing countries are witnessing a surge in poultry consumption. India, being among the leading producers of eggs and poultry meat in the world, has the capacity to meet a portion of this growing global demand. However, the export share of Indian poultry products remains relatively modest compared with major exporting nations. Understanding the export potential and global competitiveness of the Indian poultry sector is therefore essential for designing strategies that can enhance the country’s participation in global markets. In this article we shall try to examine the production strength, comparative advantages, export trends, constraints, and future opportunities that will determine India’s ability to become a competitive player in the international poultry trade.

Evolution and Growth of the Industry
The growth trajectory of the Indian poultry industry has been remarkable, particularly since the 1970s when scientific poultry farming began gaining momentum. Initially, poultry rearing in India was largely confined to backyard systems characterized by indigenous breeds with low productivity. The introduction of improved poultry breeds, scientific feeding practices, and better disease management gradually led to increased productivity and commercialization. Government support through various livestock development programs further accelerated the expansion of the sector. In the 1980s and 1990s, the emergence of private hatcheries, commercial feed mills, and vertically integrated poultry enterprises transformed the industry structure. Integration enabled better coordination among breeding, feed production, broiler growing, processing, and marketing activities, leading to greater efficiency and reduced production costs.

In recent years, modern technologies such as automated climate-controlled poultry houses, precision feeding systems, and improved genetic strains have significantly enhanced productivity levels. India has now become one of the largest producers of eggs and poultry meat globally. The country produces more than 149 billion eggs annually and 4.95 million tonnes of poultry meat, reflecting the rapid growth of the sector. This expansion has been supported by the availability of skilled manpower, improved veterinary services, and a strong research base in poultry science. The industry also benefits from an extensive network of small and medium poultry farmers who contribute to production through contract farming and cooperative models. The transformation of the Indian poultry sector demonstrates its ability to adapt to technological innovations and market demands, which is a crucial factor in developing export competitiveness.

Current Production Scenario
India’s poultry industry today represents a major component of the country’s livestock economy. Egg production has witnessed consistent growth over the past two decades, positioning India among the top two egg-producing nations in the world. Several states have emerged as major poultry production hubs due to favourable climate, infrastructure, and investment. States such as Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Karnataka, and West Bengal account for a significant share of the country’s egg and poultry meat production. These regions have developed strong production clusters supported by hatcheries, feed mills, and marketing networks. The broiler sector has also expanded rapidly, driven by increasing urban demand for poultry meat. The organized broiler industry operates through integrated production systems in which large companies provide chicks, feed, and technical support to contract farmers, while marketing the final product through established distribution channels. Such systems help maintain uniform quality and reduce production risks for farmers. Per capita consumption of eggs (106 eggs/capita/annum) and poultry meat (7.5 kg / capita / annum) in India has steadily increased as consumers recognize the nutritional benefits of these products. Eggs are considered an affordable and high-quality source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, while poultry meat is widely accepted across various cultural and religious groups. The expanding domestic market has been the primary driver of industry growth. Nevertheless, the scale of production achieved by the Indian poultry sector provides a strong foundation for exploring export opportunities, particularly in regions where demand for poultry products is growing rapidly.

Export Profile of Indian Poultry Products
Although India is among the leading producers of poultry products, its share in global poultry exports remains relatively small. The majority of poultry production in the country is consumed domestically, leaving limited quantities available for export. Nevertheless, India does participate in international trade in several poultry products. The main export items include table eggs, egg powder, liquid egg products, frozen chicken meat, and certain processed poultry products. Among these, egg powder and processed egg products constitute a significant proportion of India’s poultry exports. These products are widely used in the bakery, confectionery, and food processing industries in many countries. Major export destinations for Indian poultry products include countries in the Middle East, South Asia, and Southeast Asia. Nations such as Oman, the United Arab Emirates, Maldives, Sri Lanka, and Vietnam import eggs and poultry products from India due to geographical proximity and established trade relationships. Export volumes tend to fluctuate depending on factors such as domestic demand, international market prices, and disease outbreaks. Despite these fluctuations, the poultry export sector has shown gradual growth in recent years. However, compared with global leaders in poultry exports, India’s presence in international markets remains limited. Increasing export volumes will require improvements in processing infrastructure, quality standards, and supply chain management. Strengthening these areas will enable Indian poultry producers to compete more effectively with established exporters in the global market.

Comparative Advantages of the Indian Poultry Sector
India possesses several inherent advantages that can support the expansion of poultry exports and enhance its competitiveness in global markets. One of the most significant strengths is the large production base of eggs and poultry meat. The scale of production allows the industry to generate surplus quantities that can potentially be directed toward export markets. Another important advantage is the availability of diverse agro-climatic conditions that support year-round poultry production. This ensures a continuous supply of poultry products throughout the year, which is essential for maintaining export commitments. India also benefits from a large pool of skilled and semi-skilled labour engaged in poultry farming, processing, and marketing activities. Labor costs in India are relatively lower compared with many developed poultry-producing countries, providing a competitive edge in terms of production and processing expenses. Furthermore, the country has developed a strong research and development infrastructure in poultry science through universities, research institutes, and industry partnerships. These institutions contribute to improvements in breeding, nutrition, disease control, and farm management practices. Another advantage is the strategic geographical location of India, which allows easy access to markets in the Middle East, Africa, and Southeast Asia.
Shorter shipping distances reduce transportation costs and help maintain product quality. These comparative advantages, if effectively utilized, can significantly enhance the export potential of the Indian poultry industry.

Global Poultry Trade Dynamics
The global poultry trade is characterized by intense competition among a few major exporting countries that dominate international markets. Nations such as Brazil, the United States, Thailand, and several European countries account for a large share of global poultry exports. These countries have developed highly efficient production systems supported by advanced genetics, large-scale feed production, modern processing facilities, and strong export marketing networks. Brazil, for instance, has emerged as the largest exporter of poultry meat due to its abundant feed resources, large-scale integrated operations, and well-developed logistics infrastructure. Similarly, the United States benefits from high productivity, advanced technology, and strong global distribution systems. In contrast, many developing countries with growing poultry industries, including India, have not yet fully realized their export potential. Global poultry demand continues to rise due to increasing population, urbanization, and changing dietary preferences. Poultry meat is often preferred over other meats because it is relatively affordable, has lower fat content, and is widely acceptable across cultures. As a result, emerging economies in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East represent important growth markets for poultry exporters. For India to compete effectively in this global environment, it must improve its production efficiency, processing capacity, and compliance with international quality standards. Understanding the dynamics of global poultry trade is essential for identifying strategic opportunities and positioning Indian poultry products in suitable international markets.

Cost of Production and Feed Economics
One of the most critical factors influencing the global competitiveness of the Indian poultry industry is the cost of production, particularly the cost of feed. Feed typically accounts for nearly seventy to eighty percent of the total cost of poultry production. The major feed ingredients used in poultry diets include maize and soybean meal, both of which are subject to price fluctuations due to variations in agricultural production and market demand. In India, the prices of these feed ingredients are often higher compared with those in major poultry-exporting countries. High feed costs increase the overall cost of poultry meat and egg production, making Indian products less competitive in international markets. In addition to feed costs, other factors such as energy prices, transportation costs, and infrastructure limitations also contribute to production expenses. Improving feed efficiency through better genetics, balanced nutrition, and innovative feed additives can help reduce production costs. The development and adoption of alternative feed ingredients, including agricultural by-products and locally available feed resources, may also contribute to cost reduction. Furthermore, improvements in feed processing technologies and feed management practices can enhance nutrient utilization and overall productivity. Addressing the issue of feed cost is therefore a key requirement for strengthening the global competitiveness of the Indian poultry industry and enabling it to compete effectively with established poultry exporters.

Quality Standards and Food Safety Requirements
Access to international poultry markets depend heavily on compliance with stringent quality and food safety standards. Importing countries require strict adherence to regulations related to hygiene, product safety, and animal health. Poultry products must meet internationally recognized standards such as Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP), ISO quality management systems, and various sanitary and phytosanitary regulations. Additionally, many markets require certification related to halal processing, particularly in regions with large Muslim populations. Ensuring compliance with these standards requires significant investment in modern processing facilities, laboratory testing, and quality control systems. Traceability of poultry products from farm to processing plant is also becoming increasingly important in international trade. Consumers and regulatory authorities in many countries demand transparency regarding production practices, feed ingredients, and disease control measures. Indian poultry processors must therefore adopt advanced monitoring systems to maintain product quality and safety throughout the supply chain. Training of personnel in hygiene practices and quality management is equally essential. By strengthening food safety systems and ensuring consistent product quality, India can enhance the reputation of its poultry products in international markets. Improved compliance with global standards will not only facilitate export growth but also benefit domestic consumers by ensuring safer and higher-quality poultry products.

Infrastructure and Supply Chain Challenges
Infrastructure development plays a critical role in determining the export readiness of the poultry industry. In India, one of the major constraints affecting poultry exports is the limited availability of modern processing facilities and cold chain infrastructure. A large proportion of poultry birds are still marketed as live birds rather than processed products. This traditional marketing system restricts opportunities for value addition and limits the shelf life of poultry products. Export markets generally require processed, packaged, and frozen poultry products that can withstand long-distance transportation. The availability of refrigerated storage facilities, cold transport vehicles, and efficient port infrastructure is essential for maintaining product quality during export. Inadequate cold chain logistics can lead to spoilage and quality deterioration, reducing the competitiveness of poultry exports. Furthermore, transportation costs and logistical inefficiencies can increase the final price of exported products. Strengthening supply chain infrastructure through investments in modern slaughterhouses, cold storage units, and refrigerated transport systems is therefore essential for expanding poultry exports. Public-private partnerships and government support programs can play an important role in developing such infrastructure. Improved logistics and supply chain management will enhance the efficiency of poultry exports and ensure that Indian products reach international markets in optimal condition.

Opportunities in Emerging Markets
Despite the challenges faced by the poultry sector, several opportunities exist for expanding India’s presence in global poultry trade. One of the most significant opportunities lies in the rapidly growing demand for poultry products in developing regions such as Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. Population growth, rising incomes, and urbanization in these regions are driving increased consumption of animal protein. Poultry meat, being relatively affordable and easy to prepare, is often the preferred choice among consumers. India’s geographical proximity to many of these markets provides a logistical advantage in terms of transportation time and cost. Additionally, cultural similarities and established trade relationships with several Asian and Middle Eastern countries can facilitate market access. Another important opportunity lies in the production of value-added poultry products such as ready-to-cook and ready-to-eat items. The global demand for convenience foods is increasing as urban lifestyles become more hectic. Indian poultry processors can capitalize on this trend by expanding the production of processed and packaged poultry products. Developing specialized export zones for poultry processing and strengthening branding and marketing strategies can further enhance India’s export prospects. By focusing on emerging markets and innovative product development, the Indian poultry industry can significantly increase its share in international poultry trade.

Strategic Interventions for Enhancing Competitiveness
To fully realize its export potential, the Indian poultry industry must adopt a series of strategic interventions aimed at improving productivity, quality, and market access. One of the primary priorities should be the modernization and expansion of poultry processing infrastructure. Establishing more integrated processing plants equipped with advanced technology will enable the production of high-quality export-oriented poultry products. Strengthening veterinary services and disease surveillance systems is also crucial for preventing outbreaks that could disrupt export trade. Investments in research and development are needed to improve poultry genetics, nutrition, and disease management practices. The development of cost-effective feed formulations using locally available ingredients can help reduce production costs. Additionally, capacity building programs should be implemented to train farmers, technicians, and processing personnel in modern poultry management and food safety practices. Government policies aimed at promoting agricultural exports, including financial incentives and infrastructure development programs, can further support the growth of poultry exports. Collaboration between government agencies, research institutions, and the private sector will be essential for implementing these strategies effectively. By adopting a coordinated approach that integrates technological innovation, infrastructure development, and policy support, India can significantly enhance the global competitiveness of its poultry industry.

Future Outlook
The Indian poultry industry has achieved remarkable progress over the past several decades, evolving into one of the most vibrant sectors of the country’s agricultural economy. With a large production base, expanding domestic demand, and improving technological capabilities, the industry possesses substantial potential to become a significant exporter of poultry products. However, realizing this potential requires addressing several structural challenges, including high feed costs, limited processing capacity, inadequate cold chain infrastructure, and strict international quality requirements. Strengthening these areas will be critical for enhancing the competitiveness of Indian poultry products in global markets. At the same time, the growing global demand for affordable animal protein presents significant opportunities for export expansion. By focusing on value-added poultry products, improving supply chain efficiency, and ensuring compliance with international food safety standards, India can strengthen its position in international poultry trade. Continued investment in research, infrastructure, and policy support will play a vital role in achieving this objective. In the coming years, the integration of modern technologies, sustainable production practices, and export-oriented strategies is likely to transform the Indian poultry industry into a globally competitive sector. Such progress will not only generate additional export earnings for the country but also contribute to rural development, employment generation, and improved nutritional security.