NEW DELHI — Andhra Pradesh has emerged as the leading egg-producing state in India, registering a total output of 2,739 crore eggs during the fiscal year 2024-25, according to data released by the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying. The figure marks a significant consolidation of the state’s position in the national poultry sector, reflecting sustained growth in commercial poultry farming and improved feed efficiency across the region.
Surpassing national benchmarks
The latest data indicates that Andhra Pradesh’s egg production has outpaced other major states, including West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu, which have traditionally dominated the sector. The 2,739 crore egg count represents a substantial share of India’s total egg production, underscoring the state’s role in meeting domestic demand for protein-rich food sources. Industry analysts note that the surge is driven by the expansion of large-scale commercial poultry units and the adoption of modern farming practices in districts such as Guntur, Krishna, and West Godavari.
Policy support and infrastructure growth
The growth in egg production aligns with the state government’s strategic initiatives to boost the poultry sector. In recent years, Andhra Pradesh has introduced subsidies for poultry housing, cold chain infrastructure, and feed mills, aiming to reduce post-harvest losses and enhance market access for farmers. The state’s focus on integrated poultry farming models has also contributed to the rise in production, with many farmers transitioning from backyard poultry to commercial operations.
Officials from the state’s Department of Animal Husbandry noted that the increase in egg output is also a result of improved veterinary services and disease control measures, which have reduced mortality rates among laying hens. The implementation of biosecurity protocols in poultry farms has further supported the stability of production levels, even amid fluctuating feed prices.
Market dynamics and price stability
The rise in egg production has had notable implications for market prices. While increased supply has helped stabilize retail prices in urban centers, it has also raised concerns among small-scale poultry farmers regarding profit margins. The state government has responded by promoting direct marketing channels and linking poultry farmers with large retail chains to ensure fair pricing.
National egg prices have remained relatively stable in the first quarter of FY26, with wholesale rates hovering around ₹5.50 to ₹6.00 per egg in major markets. The consistency in supply from Andhra Pradesh has played a crucial role in preventing price spikes, particularly during festive seasons when demand typically surges.
Future outlook and challenges
Despite the record production, the sector faces challenges related to feed costs, which account for 60-70% of total production expenses. The price of maize and soybean meal, key feed ingredients, has been volatile due to global supply chain disruptions. To mitigate this, the state is exploring the use of alternative feed sources, including locally grown crops and by-products from the food processing industry.
Experts also highlight the need for further investment in research and development to improve the genetic quality of laying breeds and enhance feed conversion efficiency. The state’s agricultural universities are working on developing indigenous poultry breeds that are resilient to local climatic conditions and have higher laying potential.
As India’s population continues to grow, the demand for eggs is expected to rise, presenting both opportunities and challenges for the poultry sector. Andhra Pradesh’s leadership in egg production positions it as a key player in ensuring the country’s food security and nutritional goals.
