By IANS
Ranchi : Jharkhand Monday began culling of chickens in 21 villages adjoining West Bengal.
“The central government had directed to start culling of chickens in areas situated within 3 km of West Bengal. The culling of chickens began from Monday in 21 villages,” Rajesh Kumar Sharma, Deputy Commissioner of Pakur district, told IANS.
According to officials, more than 2,000 chickens will be culled in 21 villages. Jharkhand has already banned import of chickens from West Bengal. Till date no bird flu cases have been reported here.
“The district administration has been asked to identify the affected areas within three kilometre from West Bengal and if needed cull the chickens. The owners of chicken will be compensated. The owners will get Rs.40 ($1) for each chicken culled,” a senior official of the animal husbandry department told IANS.