Team Herald
MARGAO: A delegation of chicken suppliers from Goa, including members of the South Goa Poultry Products Shopkeepers and Traders Association, met Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Saturday to raise issues regarding the QR code system being enforced for business
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operations.
The traders highlighted problems faced at border checkpoints, where the QR code requirement has caused disruptions. Many Goan poultry traders operate farms outside the state, and the additional compliance measures have led to delays and accusations of harassment at the borders. They warned that the system could increase production costs, which would likely result in higher chicken prices, affecting both businesses and
consumers.
The delegation urged the Chief Minister to intervene and provide a solution that ensures smoother operations without placing an undue burden on traders. The meeting aimed to resolve these concerns while maintaining regulatory compliance. They called for a circular to be issued that could clarify these issues and possibly create a scenario where a minimum amount of local produce is brought to prevent a situation where they are closed to shut down as the cost margins are not working out in their favour. They also urged the government to help ensuring that pending bills are cleared
The traders also touched upon recent issues between neighbouring States that had already affected the supply chain. They feared that attempts are at play to hurt the businesses of local operators, which could have a long-term impact and that it also affects their livelihood.
They received assurances from the CM that the matter would be looked into
on priority.
Poultry rendering plant to dispose of chicken waste in Ponda
PONDA: A poultry rendering plant will soon be established in Ponda to properly dispose of chicken waste, according to Jaykrishna Naik, President of the All Goa Poultry Farmers’ and Traders’ Association (AGPFTA).
Naik stated that the AGPFTA is committed to providing healthy and high-quality chickens for consumers. He confirmed that a site for the rendering plant has already been identified in Ponda, and 95% of the groundwork has been completed. A meeting with Chief Minister Pramod Sawant is expected to accelerate the progress of the plant’s development.
Once operational, the plant will help dispose of chicken waste in a responsible, scientific, and environmentally friendly manner, eliminating the need for open dumping. This initiative is part of the association’s broader effort to enhance the poultry industry in Goa.
Naik also highlighted that the state aims to increase its chicken production to regulate prices and reduce its reliance on imports. Currently, around 150 tonnes of chicken are imported daily from neighbouring states. The association’s goal is to produce 30% of the chicken needed locally within Goa.
