Minister Gokulananda Mallick visits Bird-flu affected area of Puri and reviews the situation

Bhubaneswar : The National Institute of High Security Animal Diseases (NIHSAD), Bhoal has confirmed an outbreak of Avian Influenza (commonly known as Bird Flu) on 11th July 2025 in Bada Ankula village under Delanga block of Puri district. Fisheries & Animal Resources Development Minister Sri Gokulananda Mallick visited affected areas today and reviewed the situation. Sri Mallick issued directions to field officers of F&ARD Department and district administration for control and containment of the disease.

The Minister has said that immediately upon confirmation, the State Government initiated urgent containment and control measures to prevent further spread of the disease. Seven Rapid Response Teams (RRTs) were mobilized by F&ARD Department to undertake culling, disinfection, sanitation, and surveillance activities in the infected zone.

The culling operation commenced on 12th July following the necessary training of RRT personnel. Over the course of two days, i.e 12th and 13th July 2025, a total of 6,756 birds within one-kilometre radius of the infected premises were humanely culled. The operation was completed promptly and carcasses were scientifically disposed in deep pits treated with lime, in accordance with bio-safety norms. Compensation for the culled birds will be disbursed to the affected poultry farmers as per the guidelines of Govt. of India within two days to ensure their livelihoods are protected.

The Minister further said that biosecurity measures have been enforced in a ten-kilometre surveillance zone around the epicentre. Vehicle movement between poultry farms is being strictly regulated and disinfection protocols have been put in place to prevent potential virus transmission. Sri Mallick has said that the State Government is fully committed to controlling the outbreak with prompt and comprehensive measures to safeguard public health and protect the interest of poultry sector.

Sri Ashrit Patnaik, MLA, PIpili, Sri Vijay Amruta Kulange, Director, Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services along with state and district level  ARD officers were present during the Minister’s visit.