Andhra Pradesh to Introduce Licensing System for Chicken Shops

The Andhra Pradesh government plans to implement a licensing system to regulate chicken shops across the state. The move comes amid rising concerns over steroid-injected and substandard meat.

Authorities estimate that the smart city alone has nearly one million outlets, many operating without proper oversight.

Chandra Dandu Prakash Naidu, chairperson of the State Meat Development Corporation, said the new system aims to bring transparency and accountability to the poultry trade. “Every chicken shop will require a license. This will allow officials to trace poultry from farms to retailers,” he added.

Officials pointed out issues such as adulterated meat, poor waste management, supply shortages, and inflated prices. “Unsafe meat sales will not be tolerated,” an official said. “Past irregularities will be investigated, and those responsible will face action.”

The government will conduct surprise inspections in municipal areas. Restaurants and hotels will be encouraged to source meat only from licensed outlets. Naidu confirmed that the sale of steroid-treated chickens will be completely banned. He also emphasized safe disposal of shop waste to prevent health hazards.

Authorities will raid illegal slaughterhouses and closely monitor the transport of cattle to other states and countries. Under the P-4 Act, model meat shops will be set up in municipalities and panchayats, and cattle markets will be regulated to maintain quality standards.

“These measures are designed to provide safe, high-quality meat to the public and promote overall health across Andhra Pradesh,” officials said.