Absence of rainfall has led to a decrease in chicken feed

Cost of chicken meat has soared, crossing Rs 300 mark per kg

This steep rise in prices has shocked consumers

On one side, the absence of rainfall has led to a decrease in chicken feed such as soya and maize. Consequently, the cost of chicken meat has soared, crossing the Rs 300 mark per kilogram, with prospects of further escalation. This steep rise in prices has shocked consumers, with some facing a doubling in cost when purchasing chicken.

The scorching heat, exacerbated by scanty rainfall, has further impacted poultry farming, leading to a rise in production costs.

There are 35,000 to 40,000 poultry farmers in the state who produce 80 lakh chickens every week.

Previously, chicken production cost around Rs 60-70 per kilogram, but now it ranges from 98 to 100 rupees per kilogram. This surge in costs is compounded by a decrease in poultry production in neighboring states like Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Andhra Pradesh due to similar weather conditions.

Despite the increased costs and production challenges, there remains a high demand for chicken in the market, further exacerbating the possibility of continued price hikes.

This situation highlights the interconnectedness of factors such as weather patterns, agricultural production, and consumer demand in shaping the dynamics of the poultry industry.