Alappuzha: Compensation for losses caused by avian flu is likely to be delayed this time as well. The Central government is yet to release ₹2.28 crore due to the state as compensation for losses incurred last year. Only after receiving this amount can compensation be paid to farmers for birds that died or were culled as part of preventive measures.

This time, avian flu has been confirmed at 13 locations in Alappuzha district. In the first phase, more than 28,000 birds were culled. At locations where the disease was confirmed recently, culling has been underway since Friday. The target is to cull 13,000 birds.

There is a possibility of avian flu spreading to more areas, and hence the number of birds to be culled may increase further. Due to delays in Central funding, compensation for birds culled during the previous outbreak was paid to farmers from the state’s own funds. Even then, the payments were made only after several months.

If Central funds are delayed again this time, the state may have to use its own funds. With the Assembly elections approaching, delaying avian flu compensation could harm the government’s image. Farmers are therefore hopeful that compensation will be paid before the elections.