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The poultry industry in Pakistan has suffered heavy losses due to recent scare of Avian Influenza (bird flu) since 2006 onwards and more than 40 percent farms have closed down their business. In a press statement, Abdul Basit, chairman, Pakistan Poultry Association (PPA) emphasised the dire need for rehabilitating the farmers immediately to revive the poultry industry.
He said the poultry sector is one of the most organised branches of the agro-based sector of Pakistan. The poultry sector, at present, contributes 40 percent of the total meat consumption and generates employment and income for about 1,500,000 people. It has potential to produce and supply eggs and poultry meat according to the requirement of the country. The poultry is the cheapest available meat protein source for our masses and as such, is an effective check upon the spiralling animal protein prices also.
Abdul Basit mentioned that the matter was referred to the SBP governor by the PPA and it is highly encouraging that the State Bank has issued instructions to the scheduled banks vide its Prudential Regulation R-7 for 'Agriculture Financing" to grant relaxation in repayment schedule up to the period of one year to their borrowers (poultry farmers), who have been adversely affected due to bird flu rumours. The State Bank has also instructed to affected poultry farmers to approach their respective bankers to get the relief, he mentioned.
The PPA chief also said this goodwill gesture is highly praiseworthy and commendable for the poultry industry. It will definitely be helpful for the revival of the affected poultry farmers, he added.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2008

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