Unregulated poultry import irks farmers

NONGPOH, Jan 30: Leaders of the Meghalaya Poultry Farmer and Welfare Association (MPFWA) have expressed serious concerns over the large-scale influx of poultry from outside the state, which has severely impacted local poultry farmers. Addressing the media on Thursday, the MPFWA highlighted that due to this unregulated import, local farmers are struggling to earn profits and even recover their production costs.
President of the association, Daminot Sylliang, revealed that despite several appeals to government ministers responsible for this sector, the state government has not provided any support to local poultry farmers.
Sylliang has urged the state government to impose taxes and restrictions on the influx of poultry from outside Meghalaya.
He argued that not only would this help protect local farmers, but it would also address serious health concerns. The unchecked import of poultry without proper health screenings poses potential health risks to consumers.
He insisted that Meghalaya’s local poultry farmers are fully capable of meeting the state’s demand for chicken if given the necessary support.
Comparing poultry farming with other livestock industries, Sylliang pointed out that while the state government has introduced initiatives like the Piggery Mission for pig farmers and the Milk Mission for dairy farmers, no similar support has been extended to poultry farmers. He emphasised the need for immediate government intervention to ensure the survival of the poultry sector.
Sylliang further urged the state government to introduce Farmers’ Identity Cards to track the number of poultry farmers and their livestock. He stressed that this initiative would help assess the actual poultry demand and supply within the state. With rising unemployment, he argued that government support for poultry farming could serve as a significant livelihood opportunity for many unemployed youths.
The MPFWA leader also highlighted that the unrestricted import of poultry from outside Meghalaya has led to a sharp decline in chicken prices, making it nearly impossible for local farmers to sustain their businesses. He pointed out that small-scale farmers, particularly those rearing only 100 to 500 birds, are facing the worst impact.