A Transforming Poultry Industry at a Crossroads: Maharashtra’s Evolving Landscape
Maharashtra’s poultry sector is undergoing one of the most significant transformations in its history. Over the past five years, the industry has evolved from a scattered, semi-formal network of open houses into a more integrated, technology-driven, and sustainability-aware ecosystem. As it stands today, Maharashtra is not only meeting domestic demand but also contributing significantly to regional poultry supply, particularly to neighboring Gujarat. However, this growth comes with new challenges that require strategic responses from both industry stakeholders and policymakers.
Key Shifts Reshaping Maharashtra’s Poultry Landscape
A seismic shift has occurred in farm structures. While just a few years ago, 20–25% of poultry operations ran as open houses, today over 95% have moved under integration models. The vertical integration approach has enhanced efficiencies but also created structural dependency, requiring more data-driven collaboration among large integrators.
Environment-Controlled (EC) houses now account for approximately 20% of the total production capacity. This shift marks a move towards better biosecurity, improved bird performance, and controlled environments, critical for year-round production consistency.
Maharashtra’s poultry industry has shown a strong annual growth of 7–8% (excluding COVID-impacted years), with monthly chick placements increasing from 3.5–4 crore to 6–6.5 crore. The numbers speak of an industry expanding its capacity and reach at an unprecedented rate.
Once concentrated in regions like Nasik, Sangli, Satara, and Panvel, poultry farming is now seeing marked expansion into Vidarbha, Marathwada, Aurangabad, and Amravati. This not only decongests the traditional belts but also fosters rural economic development.
The sector is seeing increasing involvement from young, educated entrepreneurs who are bringing fresh energy, hygiene-centric practices, and digital adaptation to the fore.
Joint Secretary, Poultry Federation of India
4dIt’s always a nice learning experience while meeting and interacting with Uddhav Ahire, Chairman, Anand Agro Group