Poultry Federation of India (PFI) proudly recognised Mr. Shabbir Ahmed Khan for his remarkable 60+ years of dedicated and practical experience in the poultry industry during its 36th Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in Lucknow on 8th–9th October 2025.

Mr. Shabbir, one of the founding members of Poultry Federation of India, has been an integral part of the Federation’s journey since its inception 38 years ago, contributing immensely to the growth and development of India’s poultry sector. His lifelong commitment, visionary approach, and continuous support to small and medium poultry farmers have made him a highly respected figure in the industry.

With over six decades of hands-on experience, Mr. Shabbir Sahab’s unwavering dedication to poultry farming and his tireless service to farmers have made him a true inspiration.

Beyond being an industry stalwart, he is also an esteemed writer, having authored numerous insightful articles in several magazines in both Hindi and English that highlight the concerns, challenges, and aspirations of poultry farmers. Through his writings, he has consistently raised a strong voice for the poultry sector and advocated practical solutions for the issues faced by small farmers.

The recognition award was presented to Mr. Shabbir Ahmed Khan by Poultry Federation of India Team in honour of his outstanding contribution to the poultry industry and the Federation.

PFI extends its heartfelt appreciation to Mr. Shabbir Ahmed Khan for his invaluable contribution, wisdom, and lifelong service that continue to inspire generations within the Indian poultry fraternity.

Abstract
The Indian poultry sector is a cornerstone of the nation’s livestock economy, ensuring nutritional security, livelihood opportunities, and rural empowerment. As India advances towards the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, strengthening animal health through modern vaccination strategies becomes imperative. Poultry production faces persistent challenges from infectious diseases such as Newcastle Disease, Infectious Bursal Disease, Marek’s Disease, Avian Influenza, and Salmonellosis, which not only cause heavy economic losses but also threaten food safety and trade opportunities. While conventional vaccines have played a pivotal role in disease control, their limitations—such as cold chain dependence, maternal antibody interference, and inadequate protection against evolving strains—demand innovative solutions.

Next-generation vaccine technologies, including recombinant DNA vaccines, vector-based vaccines, immune-complex vaccines, thermostable formulations, and in-ovo delivery systems, are transforming poultry health management. These approaches offer enhanced safety, longer-lasting immunity, and the potential for multivalent protection. Thermostable vaccines and oral or feed-based delivery methods hold special promise for rural and smallholder farmers by overcoming infrastructural constraints. Moreover, advanced vaccines contribute significantly to antimicrobial stewardship by reducing dependence on antibiotics, thereby aligning with the global One Health agenda and mitigating antimicrobial resistance risks.

The pathway to widespread adoption of these technologies requires integrated efforts from policymakers, research institutions, and the private sector. Public-private partnerships, farmer training, and targeted extension services are essential to ensure affordability, accessibility, and farmer compliance. Furthermore, harmonization with international standards will open new avenues for Indian poultry exports.

Over all next-generation poultry vaccines represent more than a disease-prevention tool; they are strategic enablers of sustainable production, food security, and global competitiveness. By embedding these innovations into a national animal health roadmap, India can safeguard its poultry sector and accelerate progress towards the goals of Viksit Bharat.

Poultry Sector and National Vision
The Indian poultry sector has emerged as one of the fastest-growing components of the livestock economy, contributing significantly to nutritional security, rural livelihoods, and national income. With over 6 million tonnes of chicken meat and more than 142 billion eggs produced annually, India ranks among the top poultry producers globally. However, the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 emphasizes not just growth in numbers, but also sustainability, biosecurity, and resilience against diseases. Poultry flocks face major health threats from viral, bacterial, and parasitic infections, which can severely disrupt productivity. Vaccination is the most cost-effective and scientifically proven method to prevent infectious diseases in poultry. It not only safeguards flock health but also reduces dependency on antibiotics, thereby aligning with global efforts to combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR). In the Indian context, a robust vaccination strategy combined with innovative vaccine technologies is essential to ensure safe, sustainable, and globally competitive poultry production.

Major Poultry Diseases and Need for Vaccination

The Indian poultry industry is vulnerable to several devastating diseases that can wipe out entire flocks if not managed effectively. Newcastle Disease (Ranikhet), Infectious Bursal Disease (IBD or Gumboro), Marek’s Disease, Fowl Pox, Avian Influenza, Mycoplasmosis, Salmonellosis, and Coccidiosis remain primary threats. Outbreaks not only cause direct mortality but also result in poor feed conversion, reduced egg production, stunted growth, and increased veterinary costs. In a sector with narrow profit margins, even small disease outbreaks can push farmers into financial crisis. Vaccination is critical to prevent such losses and ensure predictable production. For example, ND vaccination is universally adopted in India, while IBD and Marek’s vaccines are routinely used in broiler and layer flocks. Vaccination also acts as a barrier against zoonotic diseases like Avian Influenza, which pose risks to human health. Beyond biological protection, vaccines are key to market access, as global trade standards demand disease-free certification. Thus, comprehensive vaccination programs serve as both a production necessity and a policy imperative for India’s poultry sector in its journey towards Viksit Bharat.

Current Vaccination Strategies in India
Presently, the Indian poultry industry relies on a mix of live attenuated, inactivated (killed), and recombinant vaccines. Day-old chicks are often vaccinated at hatcheries, while subsequent doses are administered at farms by trained personnel. Broilers typically receive vaccines against ND, IBD, and Marek’s, while layers undergo longer schedules covering Fowl Pox, Egg Drop Syndrome, and Salmonellosis. Commercial hatcheries have standardized protocols, but backyard and smallholder poultry systems still suffer from low vaccine coverage due to lack of access and awareness. Vaccines are usually delivered through drinking water, eye drops, intramuscular injections, or wing web methods. However, challenges persist in maintaining the cold chain, ensuring correct dosages, and preventing improper administration. Despite these limitations, vaccination coverage in commercial farms has improved significantly, leading to better flock health and reduced antibiotic dependence. Government agencies, private companies, and veterinary universities are working collaboratively to extend these benefits to rural poultry farmers. Standardized vaccination calendars tailored to regional disease prevalence can further improve efficiency. The existing strategies, though effective, need technological upgrades and equitable access to align with India’s aspirations of modern, climate-resilient, and globally integrated poultry production.

Limitations and Challenges of Conventional Vaccines
Despite their proven utility, conventional vaccines face several limitations in the Indian poultry sector. Live vaccines, while highly immunogenic, sometimes revert to virulence or interact with maternal antibodies, reducing their effectiveness. Inactivated vaccines, though safe, require multiple doses and are more expensive. In addition, improper handling—such as exposure to high temperatures during transportation—often compromises vaccine efficacy. A major challenge is the mismatch between circulating field strains and the strains used in commercial vaccines. For example, evolving variants of ND and IBD viruses occasionally bypass existing vaccines, causing outbreaks even in vaccinated flocks. Smallholder and backyard poultry, which form a substantial part of India’s rural economy, often remain unvaccinated due to cost, limited access, and lack of cold chain infrastructure. Moreover, conventional vaccines rarely provide sterilizing immunity, allowing vaccinated birds to shed pathogens silently, which complicates disease eradication efforts. In the backdrop of climate change, rising stocking densities, and globalization of poultry trade, these limitations demand next-generation vaccine solutions. To achieve Viksit Bharat, India must address these challenges by integrating science, technology, and farmer-centric delivery systems in its poultry vaccination programs.

Advances in New Vaccine Technologies
Recent scientific breakthroughs have paved the way for innovative vaccines tailored to modern poultry needs. Recombinant DNA vaccines, vector-based vaccines, immune-complex vaccines, and nanoparticle-based delivery systems are gaining traction. These technologies offer higher safety, broader protection, and longer-lasting immunity compared to traditional vaccines. For instance, recombinant vaccines can target multiple pathogens simultaneously, reducing the need for multiple injections. Immune-complex vaccines help overcome maternal antibody interference, ensuring early chick protection. Thermostable vaccines, currently being developed, can withstand higher temperatures, eliminating the need for stringent cold chains—a boon for rural and remote areas. Moreover, edible vaccines derived from transgenic plants and oral vaccines administered through feed or water provide farmer-friendly alternatives. The integration of nanotechnology has enhanced antigen stability and delivery, improving immune response. These innovations not only improve disease control but also align with sustainable and antibiotic-free poultry production systems. By adopting such advanced technologies, India can strengthen its poultry sector to withstand future disease challenges while ensuring affordability and accessibility for all categories of farmers.

Hatchery-Based and In-Ovo Vaccination

One of the most transformative innovations in poultry vaccination is hatchery-based immunization, particularly in-ovo vaccination. In this method, vaccines are delivered directly into the egg on the 18th day of incubation, before the chick hatches. This ensures early, uniform, and stress-free protection against diseases like Marek’s and ND. Automated in-ovo vaccination systems allow high-throughput immunization with minimal labour, ensuring biosecurity and accuracy. Post-hatch, chicks already possess robust immunity, reducing the risk of early chick mortality. This approach also minimizes handling stress, improving welfare and productivity. For commercial hatcheries in India, in-ovo vaccination holds immense promise in terms of scalability, cost-effectiveness, and alignment with global best practices. Hatchery vaccination of day-old chicks against ND, IBD, and Salmonella is already gaining popularity. As India modernizes its hatchery infrastructure under the Viksit Bharat framework, the integration of in-ovo technologies can revolutionize poultry health management. Expanding these practices to both commercial and rural hatcheries will ensure equitable benefits across the value chain. Thus, hatchery-based vaccination strategies represent a forward-looking step towards resilient poultry farming.

Role in Antibiotic Stewardship and AMR Reduction
The overuse of antibiotics in poultry has been a long-standing concern due to its contribution to antimicrobial resistance (AMR), which poses a global public health threat. Vaccination is a powerful tool in reducing reliance on antibiotics by preventing bacterial infections and associated secondary complications.
For example, vaccines against Salmonella, E. coli, and Mycoplasma significantly reduce the need for antibiotic treatments. In addition, viral vaccines indirectly lower antibiotic usage by reducing co-infections that would otherwise require antimicrobial intervention. India’s poultry sector is under increasing scrutiny from consumers, exporters, and regulators regarding antibiotic residues in meat and eggs. By adopting comprehensive vaccination programs and new-generation vaccines, the industry can move towards antibiotic-free poultry production systems, aligning with international standards. This is particularly crucial as India eyes larger export markets in the Middle East, Africa, and Asia-Pacific. Vaccination-led AMR stewardship is not just a health necessity but also a trade enabler and consumer confidence booster. Thus, vaccines play a pivotal role in aligning India’s poultry industry with the One Health approach and the national goal of Viksit Bharat.

Policy Support and Public-Private Partnerships
The success of vaccination strategies in India depends heavily on supportive policies, infrastructure, and partnerships. Government agencies like the Department of Animal Husbandry, ICAR institutes, and State Veterinary Departments must play a central role in disease surveillance, vaccine research, and farmer training. At the same time, private vaccine manufacturers, integrators, and farmer cooperatives need to collaborate in creating affordable and farmer-friendly solutions. Public-private partnerships (PPP) can accelerate the development of thermostable vaccines, indigenous recombinant vaccines, and scalable hatchery vaccination systems. Subsidies, credit support, and extension services should be provided to smallholder farmers to improve vaccine adoption. Strengthening diagnostic laboratories and surveillance networks will ensure vaccines are updated against circulating strains. Furthermore, India must harmonize its poultry vaccination policies with WOAH (World Organisation for Animal Health) and Codex standards to expand exports. By embedding vaccination strategies into national livestock and poultry development programs, policymakers can ensure that poultry contributes robustly to the nutritional, economic, and employment goals envisioned under Viksit Bharat.

Capacity Building and Farmer Awareness
A robust vaccination strategy is incomplete without farmer participation and awareness. Many disease outbreaks in India are linked to gaps in farmer knowledge about vaccine handling, schedules, and post-vaccination management. Training programs, mobile-based advisory services, and community-based poultry health workers can play an important role in bridging these gaps. Integrating digital tools like AI-driven vaccination calendars, blockchain-based cold chain monitoring, and mobile reminders can improve efficiency and compliance. Educational campaigns in local languages are needed to dispel myths about vaccination, such as misconceptions regarding reduced fertility or productivity. Special emphasis must be placed on women farmers, who play a crucial role in backyard poultry rearing but often lack access to formal veterinary training. Farmer cooperatives, SHGs (Self Help Groups), and FPOs (Farmer Producer Organizations) can act as vehicles for disseminating vaccination services at the grassroots. By building capacity and creating farmer-centric vaccination systems, India can democratize the benefits of new vaccine technologies, ensuring inclusive growth of the poultry sector.

Vaccination Roadmap towards Viksit Bharat
The future of India’s poultry sector lies in its ability to combine productivity with sustainability, resilience, and global competitiveness. Vaccination strategies and new vaccine technologies form the cornerstone of this transformation. From conventional vaccines to recombinant DNA vaccines, in-ovo immunization, thermostable formulations, and nanotechnology-driven innovations, the spectrum of tools available today is wider than ever. However, technology alone is not enough. Equitable access, policy support, capacity building, and farmer participation are equally vital. A national poultry vaccination roadmap aligned with Viksit Bharat 2047 should prioritize:

(I) strengthening surveillance and diagnostics,
(ii) promoting indigenous vaccine R&D,
(iii) scaling hatchery-based immunization,
(iv) supporting smallholder vaccination access, and
(v) integrating vaccination with AMR stewardship.

By embracing these strategies, India can ensure that its poultry sector not only meets the rising domestic demand for safe, affordable protein but also positions itself as a global leader in sustainable poultry production. Vaccination is more than just a disease-control measure; it is a strategic investment in the nation’s food security, public health, and economic prosperity.

Introduction
The poultry sector is a critical part of the livestock industry, encompassing various production levels such as breeding farms, hatcheries, feed factories, broiler and layer farms, and processing plants. It includes different species like chicken, quail, duck, turkey, guinea fowl, and goose. The infrastructure ranges from basic hatched sheds to automated, environmentally controlled ones, featuring automatic feeders, advanced watering systems, automatic egg collection, refrigeration systems, and units for manufacturing nutraceuticals, medicines, vaccines, mechanical components, and electronic gadgets. Poultry feed manufacturing involves processing different raw materials to meet the nutritional needs of birds, drawing on expertise in animal nutrition and mechanical engineering. Since the introduction of feed mills, numerous technologies have been employed to implement diverse feed manufacturing techniques. These technologies aim to produce well-balanced, cost-effective, and high-quality feed sustainably. Over the years, various technological innovations have further enhanced the environmental, social, and economic sustainability of feed manufacturing vaccine quality control, standardization and quality control of poultry feed, eggs, and meat, HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point) and GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) compliance with WTO and CODEX norms, and efforts in grading, value addition, brand promotion, and export enhancement.

Globally, by the end of this decade, poultry meat is expected to account for 41% of all protein from meat sources, according to the OECD-FAO Agricultural Outlook 2030. The Indian poultry industry stands to gain from lifestyle and dietary changes, with the share of organized commercial farms increasing due to modernization and technical improvements. Government data shows a steady rise in egg production, from 95 billion in 2017-18 to 105 billion the following year, and 114 billion in 2019-20.
Similarly, poultry meat production grew from 3.7 million metric tons (mmt) in 2017-18 to 4.1 mmt the following year, reaching 4.3 mmt in 2019-20. Projections suggest that by 2023, the country could produce 136 billion eggs and 6.2 mmt of poultry meat.

The global poultry market was valued at nearly $319.2 billion in 2019, having grown at a CAGR of 5.5% since 2015, and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.1% to nearly $405 billion by 2023. The market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.2% to nearly $465.7 billion by 2025 and at a CAGR of 6.8% to $645.7 billion by 2030.

New Trends in Poultry Farming:
The COVID-19 pandemic, declared by the WHO on March 11, 2020, severely impacted many economic sectors, including livestock production. It led to production and transportation disruptions, declining consumer demand, and volatile markets, causing financial difficulties and permanent closures of many farms. Social distancing, self-isolation, and travel restrictions reduced the workforce across sectors, leading to job losses. The need for medical supplies increased, while the need for commodities and manufactured products decreased. The food sector faced increased demand due to panic-buying and stockpiling. Labor management issues prompted innovative ideas in poultry farming. Despite the challenges, new technologies offer solutions for future success.

Emerging trends in poultry farming include:
1. Genetic solutions for preventing male chicks.
2. 3D cameras for capturing precise broiler weights.
3. MRI technology for identifying fertile eggs.
4. Smartwatches for solving labor problems in poultry processing.
5. 24/7 feedback loops for improving poultry flock outcomes.
6. Collaborative robots for further automation.
7. Improved in-line poultry chilling using kinematics.
8. Preventing antibiotic resistance using peptides.
9. Digital technologies for simplifying poultry data analysis.
10. Hyperspectral imaging for detecting poultry meat defects.
11. Machine vision for detecting broiler floor distribution.
12. CRISPR technology for transforming the poultry industry.
13. Robots for meeting processing challenges.
14. Automation for preparing case-ready poultry.
15. Digitalization for optimizing productivity planning.
16. Healthy chicks establishing adult microbiomes quickly.

Technologies disrupting future production and processing operations:
1. Remote sensing allows real-time visibility of poultry house conditions, bird performance, health, and welfare. Farmers can monitor sheds and birds via computer, with sensors providing alerts if parameters deviate from requirements.
2. Sensors streamline data collection for birds and workers, enabling precision poultry production. Smart phones can monitor real-time environmental contexts like temperature, humidity, ammonia levels, and water levels. Integrated solutions using WSN (wireless sensor network) and GPRS networks facilitate smart poultry monitoring.
3. Sensors help estimate body weights, measure flock uniformity, and solve labor issues. Wearable sensors improve worker retention and food safety.

Feed ingredients for poultry
Cereal grains and their by-products:
1. Dry matter: Dry matter of cereal grains should be 90%.
2. Proteins: Crude protein content of grains range from 8-12%. Cereal proteins are deficient in certain indispensable amino acids particularly lysine and methionine. 3. Lipids: Wheat, barley, rye, rice contain 1-3% lipids. Lipid content is highest in oat (46%) and lowest in wheat (1-2%).Cereal oils are unsaturated fatty acids main acids being lenoleic and oleic.
4. Crude fibre: Highest amount of crude fibre is present in oats and rice which contain a husk or hull. Crude fibre is lowest in naked grains, wheat and maize.
5. Starch: Cereal starch occurs in the endosperm of the grain in the form of granules. Cereal starches consist of 25% amylose and 75% amylopectine,
6. Minerals: All grains are deficient in Ca (0.1% or less) and P (0.3-0.5%) but part of this is present as phytic acid which is concentrated in the aleurone layer. Cereal phytates bind with Ca and probably Mg, thus preventing their absorption.
7. Vitamins: Cereal grains are deficient in vitamin A. With exception of yellow maize having good amount of vitamin A as carotene, Grains are good source of vitamin E and vitamin B1, but low content of vitamin B2.

Plant-Origin Oil Cakes and Meals:
1. Groundnut Cake (GNC):
o Composition: Contains 35-60% oil and 25-30% crude protein.
o Protein Content: In expeller varieties, crude protein (CP) is around 45% with 10% fat.
o Amino Acid Profile: Excellent source of arginine but deficient in lysine, methionine, and cystine. Lysine is the first limiting amino acid.
o Mineral Content: Poor in calcium (Ca) and phosphorus (P).
o Toxic Factor: Contains aflatoxins from Aspergillus flavus, especially in warm, rainy seasons. It tends to become rancid in warm, moist climates and should not be stored longer than 6 weeks in summer or 3-4 months in winter. Ducklings are particularly susceptible.

2. Soybean Meal (SBM):
o Oil Content: Solvent-extracted SBM has about 1% oil.
o Protein Content: SBM is a high-quality protein source with a CP of 44% to 49%.
o Amino Acid Profile: Contains all essential amino acids but has sub-optimal concentrations of cystine and methionine. Lysine is abundant, while methionine is the first limiting amino acid.
o Usage: Suitable for a wide range of animals, including poultry.

3. Mustard Oil Cake:
o Oil Content: High at 14.1%.
o Protein Content: 35%.
o Mineral Content: High in calcium (Ca) at 0.29% and phosphorus (P) at 0.39%.
o Amino Acid Profile: Deficient in lysine.
o Usage: Deoiled mustard cake can be included up to 10% in poultry rations. Contains goitrogenic substances that can reduce growth rates in poultry. Limit to about 10-15% of the ration.

4. Cotton Seed Cake:
o Protein Content: High at about 40%.
o Amino Acid Profile: Low in cystine, methionine, and lysine, with lysine being the first limiting amino acid.
o Forms: Available as whole pressed (undecorticated) or dehulled (decorticated) cake. Dehulled varieties have less fiber and more protein.
o Usage: Can be used in poultry rations if free gossypol levels do not exceed 0.03%.

Animal-Origin Protein Sources:
1. Fish Meal:
o Production: Made by cooking fish and pressing to remove most oil and water.
o Protein Content: Ranges from 50-75%, with a digestibility of 93-95%.
o Amino Acid Profile: Rich in all essential amino acids, particularly lysine, cystine, methionine, and tryptophan.
o Mineral Content: High in calcium, phosphorus, manganese (Mn), iron (Fe), and iodine.
o Vitamins: Good source of vitamins A, D, B-complex, particularly choline, pantothenic acid, B12, and riboflavin. It is the richest source of vitamin B12.

Summary:
– Plant-Origin Oil Cakes: Provide significant protein and fat, with varying amino acid profiles and potential limitations due to deficiencies or toxic factors. They are valuable sources of protein but must be used with consideration of their specific characteristics and potential issues.
– Animal-Origin Protein Sources: Fish meal stands out for its high protein digestibility and comprehensive nutrient profile, including essential amino acids and vitamins. It is a highly effective feed ingredient for enhancing growth and overall health in animals

Unconventional Poultry Feeds
1. Sunflower Meal:
o Composition:
o Protein Content: 40-44% in good quality, high-grade sunflower meal.
o Amino Acid Profile: Rich in methionine, but lysine is the first limiting amino acid.
o Decorticated vs. Undecorticated: Decorticated sunflower meal has a higher protein content (40-44%) compared to undecorticated varieties, which have only 20% protein.

2. Rubber Seed Cake:
o Composition:
o Protein Content: 30% crude protein.
o Fat Content: 9-10% ether extract.
o Fiber Content: 5% crude fiber.
o Usage: Can be included up to 10% in poultry rations.

3. Neem Cake:
o Composition:
o Crude Protein: 34% in raw form; 48% in processed cake.
o Fiber Content: 4.4%.
o Amino Acid Profile: Comparable to groundnut cake (GNC) in lysine and methionine.
o Palatability: Unpalatable by itself; should be mixed with more palatable feedstuffs.

4. Karanja Cake:
o Composition:
o Crude Protein: 30% in deoiled variety.
o NFE (Nitrogen-Free Extract): 60%.
o Crude Fiber: 6.66%.
o Amino Acid Profile: Moderately rich in essential amino acids such as lysine and methionine.
o Palatability: Less palatable due to polyphenolic compounds; impacts growth and production.

5. Meat Meal:
o Composition:
o Crude Protein Content: 50-55%
o Ash Content: 21%.
o Calcium: 8%.
o Phosphorus: 4%.
o Amino Acid Profile: Low in tryptophan and methionine, but rich in other essential amino acids.
o Vitamins: Good source of B-complex vitamins, especially riboflavin, choline, niacin, and vitamin B12.

6. Blood Meal:
o Composition:
o Crude Protein: 80%.
o Moisture: 10%.
o Ash and Oil: Small amounts.
o Amino Acid Profile: Rich in lysine, arginine, methionine, cystine, and glycine.
o Mineral Content: Poor in calcium and phosphorus; can be unpalatable to animals.

7. Tapioca Chips:
o Composition:
o Moisture: 10%.
o Dry Matter: 90%.
o Carbohydrates: High in non-fibrous carbohydrates (77% NFE).
o Protein: 3.9%.
o Fat: 0.7% ether extract.
o Fiber: 11% crude fiber.
o Minerals: 0.58% calcium and 0.18% phosphorus.
o Usage: Can replace partial cereal grains in rations; protein deficiencies need to be addressed.
Level of Inclusion of common poultry feed ingredients

Summary:
Unconventional feeds can be valuable in poultry nutrition, providing diverse sources of protein, carbohydrates, and other nutrients. They can help reduce feed costs and enhance feed efficiency when used appropriately. Each feed type has unique characteristics, including protein and fat content, amino acid profiles, and palatability issues, which should be considered when formulating poultry diets.

Supplements are crucial nutritional additives used in animal feeds to address deficiencies in essential nutrients that are not adequately supplied by standard feed ingredients. These supplements ensure that animals receive a balanced diet, promoting optimal health, growth, and production.

Types of Supplements:
1. Mineral Supplements:
o Purpose: Provide essential minerals that may be lacking in the diet.
o Forms: Often added in synthetic forms, including organic complexes like chelated minerals.
o Examples: Calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and trace minerals like zinc, copper, and selenium.
2. Vitamin Supplements:
o Purpose: Supply essential vitamins that are not sufficiently present in the feed.
o Forms: Provided in synthetic forms to ensure stability and bioavailability.
o Examples: Vitamins A, D, E, K, and B-complex vitamins.
3. Amino Acid Supplements:
o Purpose: Provide essential amino acids, especially those that are limiting in the diet.
o Forms: Available in synthetic forms to precisely meet dietary requirements.
o Examples: DL-methionine, L-lysine, threonine, and tryptophan.

Importance of Supplements:
1. Address Nutritional Deficiencies:
o Ensure a balanced diet by filling gaps in the nutritional profile of the feed.
o Prevent deficiencies that can lead to poor health, growth, and production.
2. Enhance Feed Efficiency:
o Optimize the use of available feed ingredients by ensuring all essential nutrients are present.
o Improve the overall nutritional quality of the feed.
3. Support Health and Growth:
o Contribute to the proper development and functioning of the animal’s body.
o Promote immune function, bone development, muscle growth, and overall well-being.
4. Improve Production:
o Enhance productivity in terms of weight gain, milk production, egg laying, etc.
o Support reproductive health and performance.

Conclusion:
Supplementation is an essential aspect of animal nutrition, ensuring that all necessary nutrients are available for optimal health and productivity. By addressing deficiencies in minerals, vitamins, and amino acids, supplements play a critical role in supporting the overall well-being and performance of livestock
Additives are non-nutritive substances incorporated into animal feed to enhance feed intake, digestion, absorption, and nutrient utilization, ultimately improving the growth and production performance of livestock, including poultry. Unlike nutritional supplements, additives do not directly provide essential nutrients but instead facilitate better use of the nutrients present in the feed.
Types of Feed Additives:
1. Antibiotics:
o Purpose: Used to prevent or control bacterial infections, thus promoting healthier and more productive livestock.
o Action: Suppress pathogenic bacteria in the gut, reducing disease incidence and improving feed efficiency.
o Consideration: Due to the risk of antibiotic resistance, the use of antibiotics as feed additives is now restricted or banned in many countries.
2. Probiotics:
o Purpose: Live microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, confer health benefits to the host.
o Action: Improve gut health by balancing intestinal microflora, enhancing digestion and nutrient absorption.
o Examples: Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, Saccharomyces.
Additional Common Feed Additives:
3. Prebiotics:
o Purpose: Non-digestible food ingredients that stimulate the growth and/or activity of beneficial bacteria in the gut.
o Action: Serve as food for probiotics, promoting a healthy gut microbiome.
o Examples: Inulin, fructooligosaccharides (FOS), galactooligosaccharides (GOS).
4. Enzymes:
o Purpose: Break down anti-nutritional factors and complex feed components to improve digestibility.
o Action: Enhance the breakdown of fibers, starches, proteins, and phytates, leading to better nutrient utilization.
o Examples: Phytase, xylanase, protease.
5. Antioxidants:
o Purpose: Prevent the oxidation of feed ingredients, thus preserving feed quality and nutrient content.
o Action: Protect fats, vitamins, and other sensitive nutrients from oxidative damage.
o Examples: Vitamin E, selenium, ethoxyquin.
6. Growth Promoters:
o Purpose: Enhance growth rates and feed efficiency.
o Action: May include natural or synthetic substances that stimulate metabolic processes.
o Examples: Hormones, beta-agonists.
7. Flavoring Agents:
o Purpose: Improve palatability and feed intake.
o Action: Enhance the taste and smell of feed to encourage consumption.
o Examples: Sweeteners, flavor enhancers.
8. Mycotoxin Binders:
o Purpose: Neutralize or reduce the impact of mycotoxins present in contaminated feed.
o Action: Bind mycotoxins, preventing their absorption in the gut.
o Examples: Clays, yeast cell wall extracts.

Feed additives play a crucial role in optimizing the health, growth, and productivity of poultry by enhancing the efficiency of nutrient utilization and improving overall feed quality. Their strategic use, tailored to the specific needs and conditions of the livestock, can lead to significant improvements in animal performance and well-being
Antibiotics have historically been used as feed additives in poultry and swine production to promote health, growth, and productivity by mitigating the adverse effects of pathogenic organisms present in the animal’s environment. These organisms can cause subclinical infections, consuming nutrients and producing toxins that lead to intestinal inflammation and reduced nutrient absorption. Antibiotics, when administered in small amounts over prolonged periods, can suppress these microorganisms, enhance nutrient availability, reduce toxin production, and improve the overall health and growth of the animals.

Benefits of Antibiotic Feed Additives:
1. Suppression of Pathogenic Organisms: Reduces the load of harmful microorganisms in the gastrointestinal tract.
2. Improved Nutrient Availability: By reducing microbial competition, more nutrients are available for the host animal.
3. Reduced Intestinal Inflammation: Leads to thinner intestinal mucous membranes, enhancing nutrient absorption.
4. Enhanced Growth and Production: Better health and nutrient absorption result in improved growth rates and productivity.
Commonly Used Antibiotics:
– Tetracycline
– Oxytetracycline
– Auriomycins

Benefits of Probiotics as Feed Additives:
1. Enhanced Gut Health:
o Prevention of Gut Disorders: Probiotics help in maintaining a balanced gut microflora, which can prevent digestive disorders and improve nutrient absorption.
2. Improved Growth and Production:
o Growth Promotion: By enhancing nutrient absorption and gut health, probiotics contribute to better growth rates and productivity.
3. Immune System Support:
o Immune Function: Probiotics can boost the immune system, helping animals resist infections and diseases.
4. Reduction in Pathogen Load:
o Pathogen Control: By preventing pathogen colonization and reducing pathogen load, probiotics help in maintaining overall health.
Probiotics offer a valuable alternative to antibiotics in animal feeds by promoting gut health and enhancing growth and production. Their ability to competitively exclude pathogens and produce beneficial substances makes them effective in supporting overall animal well-being..

Benefits of Probiotics as Feed Additives:
1. Enhanced Gut Health:
o Prevention of Gut Disorders: Probiotics help in maintaining a balanced gut microflora, which can prevent digestive disorders and improve nutrient absorption.
2. Improved Growth and Production:
o Growth Promotion: By enhancing nutrient absorption and gut health, probiotics contribute to better growth rates and productivity.
3. Immune System Support:
o Immune Function: Probiotics can boost the immune system, helping animals resist infections and diseases.
4. Reduction in Pathogen Load:
o Pathogen Control: By preventing pathogen colonization and reducing pathogen load, probiotics help in maintaining overall health.
Probiotics offer a valuable alternative to antibiotics in animal feeds by promoting gut health and enhancing growth and production. Their ability to competitively exclude pathogens and produce beneficial substances makes them effective in supporting overall animal well-being.
Prebiotics Prebiotics are not organism, these are the substance which required by the probiotics organism or in other words these are the substance which promote the growth of probiotic organism for example FOS (fructan oligosaccharide) MOS (mannan oligosaccharide) these are carbohydrate in nature and used as energy source by probiotic organism.

– Common Prebiotics:
1. Fructooligosaccharides (FOS):
o Nature: A type of carbohydrate consisting of short chains of fructose molecules.
o Source: Found in foods like onions, garlic, bananas, and asparagus.
o Function: FOS is used as an energy source by beneficial bacteria, promoting their growth and activity in the gut.
2. Mannanoligosaccharides (MOS):
o Nature: A carbohydrate composed of mannose sugars.
o Source: Derived from yeast cell walls.
o Function: MOS can act as a prebiotic by binding to pathogenic microorganisms, preventing their adhesion to the gut lining and supporting the growth of beneficial bacteria.

Benefits of Prebiotics:
1. Support for Probiotics:
– Enhanced Growth: By providing a food source for probiotics, prebiotics help maintain a healthy balance of gut microflora.
o Improved Function: Support the activity of probiotics, enhancing their ability to inhibit pathogenic bacteria and promote gut health.
2. Improved Digestive Health:
o Gut Health: Promote regular bowel movements and prevent constipation by stimulating beneficial bacteria that produce short-chain fatty acids.
o Nutrient Absorption: Improve the absorption of minerals like calcium and magnesium.
3. Immune System Support:
o Immune Function: By fostering a healthy gut microbiome, prebiotics can enhance immune responses and overall health.
4. Disease Prevention:
o Pathogen Inhibition: Help reduce the risk of gastrointestinal infections and diseases by maintaining a balanced gut environment.

Ricky Thaper, Treasurer, Poultry Federation of India

The sector through applications of technologies and collaboration with various stakeholders in the value chain is gearing up to meet rising demand for healthy poultry products through taking a series of measures -Ricky Thaper

In the last four decades or so the poultry sector has grown fastest in the livestock sector transferring itself into supplier of most economic sources for protein for consumers through development of value chains.

The sector through applications of technologies and collaboration with various stakeholders in the value chain is gearing up to meet rising demand for healthy poultry products through taking a series of measures.

The growth in India poultry industry is being driven by the rising disposable incomes and change in food habits. The shift from the traditional diet, which relied heavily on pulses, to food products such as meat, eggs, and dairy products to meet the protein requirements is significantly aiding the industry growth. The increasing awareness about health and wellness is further driving the demand for a protein-rich diet.

According to the Economic Survey (2022-23), the livestock sector comprising dairy, poultry meat, eggs and fisheries witnessed a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.9 per cent during 2014-15 to 2020-21 (at constant prices), and its contribution to total agriculture GVA (at constant prices) has increased from 24.3% in 2014-15 to 30.1% in 2020-21.

According to the department of animal husbandry and dairying annual report (2022-23), poultry production in India has taken a quantum leap in the last four decades, emerging from conventional farming practices to commercial production systems with state-of-the-art technological interventions. Broiler meat production in the country is estimated at around 5 million tonne (MT) annually.

According to EMR market research, India poultry market currently valued at USD 28.18 billion, is expected to grow at a CAGR of 8.1% in the forecast period of 2024-2032 to reach a value of approximately USD 44.97 billion by 2032.

During the 2022-23, India exported poultry and poultry products to 64 countries, generating revenue of USD 134 million.

The adoption of modern technology was a game-changer for the industry. Improved feed formulations, automated systems for feeding and temperature control, and state-of-the-art disease management practices revolutionized poultry farming. These innovations enhanced production efficiency, leading to increased output. Since the 1990s as India underwent economic liberalization and urbanization, there was a noticeable shift in dietary patterns. Urban consumers sought convenient and readily available sources of protein. Poultry products, particularly chicken meat and eggs, emerged as affordable and accessible options as protein rich food.

India’s rapidly growing population is a direct driver of demand for poultry products. With more mouths to feed, there is a continuous need for affordable and nutritious sources of protein. As incomes rise and lifestyles evolve, dietary habits shift towards increased protein consumption. Chicken meat and eggs are perceived as healthier alternatives to red meat, driving up demand. Poultry products are often more affordable than other protein sources, making them accessible to a broader segment of the population. Poultry production can be influenced by seasonal factors, including extreme weather conditions. These fluctuations can lead to periods of oversupply and shortages.

Fluctuations in feed prices directly affect production costs and, consequently, supply. Advances in poultry farming techniques and technology have improved production efficiency. Farms that adopt these practices can produce more, potentially leading to oversupply. Consumer awareness regarding health and safety issues can influence demand. Food safety incidents or concerns about antibiotic use in poultry production can affect consumer choices.

The Indian poultry industry is focussing on a multifaceted approach in adopting technologies, minimising production risk and improving supply change management to sustain the growth of the sector.

Use of Technologies & Analytics in Market Research & Consumer Behaviour

On forecasting of demand and supply situation, advanced data analytics tools and software are currently available to poultry producers, enabling them to analyse historical data, market trends, and consumer behaviour. These tools support poultry farmers to make informed decisions regarding production volumes and timing. India’s diverse climate can impact poultry production, leading to seasonal variations in demand and supply.

Poultry farmers or producers employ seasonal adjustments in terms of breeding and hatching schedules to match the market’s demand. For instance, in regions experiencing extreme temperatures, production may be scaled down during the summer months to avoid stress on the birds. Automated feeding systems, temperature control systems, and data-driven management tools optimize resource utilization and reduce production costs. This efficiency helps producers maintain competitive pricing and a steady supply.

Diversification into Value Added Products
Beyond poultry products like chicken meat and eggs, diversification has to become a key strategy for expansion of the poultry sector. Currently producers are focussing on the development of value-added products, such as processed poultry items including sausages, nuggets, and ready-to-cook meals. These products cater to the evolving tastes and preferences of consumers, offering convenience and variety especially for younger consumers. Poultry farms are increasingly expanding to different regions to mitigate risks associated with localized supply disruptions. By establishing operations in multiple locations, producers could reduce their vulnerability to disease outbreaks, adverse weather conditions, or logistical challenges.

Optimization of Supply Chain & Marketing
Producers and processors are streamlining supply chain operations to minimize waste and ensure timely distribution. Advanced logistics and transportation management systems facilitate the efficient movement of poultry products from farms to consumers. This optimization reduces the chances of product shortages due to logistical issues. Well thought out marketing campaigns in the similar line of National Egg Coordination Committee’s ‘Sunday Ho Ya Monday Roj Khao Ande’ (Sunday or Monday, have eggs daily) are essential for increasing consumer awareness and demand. Poultry Companies have started to invest in advertising, branding, and promotions to highlight the nutritional benefits of poultry products. These efforts create consumer loyalty and boost demand. Indian poultry producers are exploring export opportunities. By tapping into foreign markets, they diversify their revenue streams and reduce reliance on the domestic market. This strategy helps manage supply levels more effectively.

Collaboration with Government on Regulations
Working closely with the government agencies both at the centre and state levels have become crucial for the poultry industry’s growth. Poultry sector works closely with regulatory bodies to develop policies for ensuring food safety and quality standards. Government also provides support such as financial incentives, subsidies, and infrastructure development. The government’s role has been critical in initiating effective measures in dealing with disease outbreak and emergency response. Timely and coordinated efforts during disease outbreaks help minimize disruptions in the supply chain.

Collaboration with Various Associations in the Value Chains
A number of industry associations, both at the national and regional levels, play important roles in supporting poultry farmers. These associations advocate for policies that promote sustainability, ensure the availability of quality inputs, and provide a platform for knowledge exchange and problem-solving. Bodies such as the Poultry Federation of India (PFI), The Compound Livestock Feed Manufacturers Association (CLFMA), Vets in Poultry (VIP), Indian Federation of Animal Health Companies (INFAH) and several state-level organizations, are the key support for the industry, fostering growth and resilience among poultry farmers.

In addition, the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) recently has approved India’s self-declaration stating that it is free from Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), commonly known as bird flu, in specific poultry compartments. The approval to this self-declaration is expected to open up new opportunities for Indian poultry in the global market, contributing to the country’s economic growth. According to the ministry animal husbandry statement, India gave a self-declaration that it was free of HPAI in 26 poultry compartments, which was approved by WOAH on October 13, coinciding with the World Egg day. These poultry compartments are located in four states — Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh.

With such collaborations with various players in the poultry value chains, the sector is poised to meet rising challenges and provide consumer demand for healthy chicken meat products in the coming decades.