Comparing Biosecurity Measures between Commercial Broiler and Layer Farms: Exploring Poultry Farming Biosecurity Practices in Gujarat

Background Poultry farming is crucial to India's economy, but global trade and the movement of people and animals have raised concerns about disease transmission and antimicrobial resistance. Implementing biosecurity measures on farms can control the spread of infectious diseases and antimicrobial resistance. This study aimed to compare the biosecurity practices of commercial broiler and layer farms in Gujarat and provide insights into the measures adopted by farmers in the region. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted using survey questionnaires collected from 74 commercial poultry farmers including 39 broiler and 35 layer farmers. The cleaned data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, factor analysis of mixed data, and hierarchical clustering on principal component. Results The four clusters, with each cluster having a predominant farm type were identified. The biosecurity measures significantly differentiated farms, were: type of farm, rearing system, production cycle per year, level of biosecurity knowledge, source of income, farm previously encountered the disease outbreak and mode of operation. Comparatively layer farmers are well educated, experienced, have good biosecurity knowledge and follow strict biosecurity protocol than the broiler farmers. Additionally, the 79.49% broiler and 71.43% layer of farmers were not knowledgeable about antimicrobial resistance and 38.46% broiler and 91.43% layer farmers were not maintaining records. The majority of farmers agreed that lack of knowledge, skilled manpower and investment limit the implementation. Conclusions The analysis findings can guide strategies to reinforce compliance with critical biosecurity practices by farm type. Educational programs, such as workshops and information sessions, are vital to raise awareness and compliance with biosecurity practices among farmers. Further, establishing a partnership between authorities and farmers can facilitate better implementation of biosecurity measures. This collaborative approach highlights the importance of biosecurity while empowering farmers, fostering a unified effort to prevent diseases in the poultry sector.