Antimicrobial Resistance in Salmonella from Indian Poultry: Trends, Challenges, and One Health Perspectives

Salmonella remains a major foodborne pathogen linked to poultry, and in India, the rapid intensification of poultry farming combined with widespread, often unregulated antibiotic use has driven the emergence of antimicrobial-resistant (AMR) strains. This review analysed 1,780 global studies (including 35 from India, 2000–2025) and found wide regional variation in Salmonella prevalence in Indian poultry (0.5% to >80%) alongside high levels of multidrug resistance, particularly to tetracycline, ampicillin, and third-generation cephalosporins. Despite being a leading poultry producer, India lags behind many countries in research output on this issue. The review highlights misuse of antibiotics, limited farmer awareness, and surveillance gaps as key challenges, while pointing to sustainable alternatives such as probiotics and phytogenic feed additives. It calls for stronger regulation, improved surveillance, One Health integration, research investment, and policy reform to safeguard food safety, public health, and the long-term sustainability of India’s poultry sector.