Assessment of biosecurity status of commercial chicken farms from Maharashtra, India

Abstract

Implementing farm biosecurity practices could help prevent disease outbreaks at farms and reduce the economic burden on poultry farmers. A cross-sectional survey was conducted from January to July 2023, to evaluate the biosecurity status adopted by 72 commercial chicken farms from various districts of Maharashtra State. The personal face-to-face interview was made using a structured questionnaire on biosecurity practices. Poultry farming was found to be a male-dominated business. Amongst the 72 farmers, 30 (42%) had higher education in various fields; 47 (65%) were Agricultural; 42 (58%) had previous experience in rearing chickens; and 64% did not receive training on chicken farm management. The study's findings revealed that 83% of farmers (n=60) adopted their own farming. The farms were located near roads and water bodies. In structural biosecurity, only 22 (31%) had foot baths at the entrance of the farm. Pertaining to Biosecurity training given to the employees, Hygienic disposal of manure, measures for litter management, screening of vehicles, and labours training about vaccination were found to be followed more by the farmers of above higher secondary education group. The results indicate the impact of higher education on biosecurity measures.