This talk delves into the complexities of India's evolving poultry industry, reflecting on the social, cultural and economic aspects to do with the shift from 'traditional' to 'modern' farming. It examines the implications of these changes on labor relations, land use, and the environment, with a particular focus on health and ecological impacts of antibiotic use and waste management. Drawing on fieldwork in farms and temples, the study will also touch on the cultural practices surrounding chickens in India, and concerns over class, caste, gender, and human-nonhuman relationships.

Assa Doron teaches in the anthropology program at the School of Culture, History ad Language, ANU.