The Hindu : National : West Bengal ban on sale of chicken goes

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Wednesday, Feb 13, 2008
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West Bengal ban on sale of chicken goes

Special Correspondent

Kolkata: The West Bengal government on Tuesday lifted the ban on sale of poultry birds and eggs imposed across the State on February 5 in the wake of avian flu outbreak.

However, restrictions on the sale and movements of poultry birds will continue as a precaution in parts of the Birbhum and Murshidabad blocks, worst hit by the disease.

Poultry farming in notified affected areas would not be allowed for another three months, Animal Resources Development Minister Anisur Rahaman said here.

38 lakh birds culled

The decision was taken after consultations with Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattcharjee and a review at a meeting of Ministers and officials of the departments concerned.

In all, nearly 38 lakh poultry birds had been culled across the affected districts since the first deaths were reported.

Another 1.5 lakh birds died of avian flu.

Rs.700-crore package

The State Government has announced a Rs 700-crore package for economic rehabilitation of and compensation to those whose earnings have been affected by the bird deaths and culling operations.

Nearly seven lakh families have been affected. The government has already sanctioned Rs. 12 crore for an immediate grant of Rs 500 to each family.

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