India Establishes First Internationally Recognized Equine Disease-Free Zone
In a groundbreaking achievement for India’s animal health sector and international trade, the country has established its first Equine Disease-Free Compartment (EDFC), receiving global recognition from the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) on July 3, 2025. Located at the Remount Veterinary Corps (RVC) Centre & College in Meerut Cantonment, Uttar Pradesh, this facility is set to facilitate the international movement of Indian sport horses, adhering to stringent biosecurity and animal health standards. This development not only enhances the prospects for Indian equestrians but also elevates India’s status in the global equestrian community.
Significance of the EDFC
The establishment of the EDFC represents a significant milestone for Indian equestrian sports. With robust biosecurity protocols and rigorous veterinary surveillance in place, horses from this facility can now travel and compete internationally. This opens up new avenues for Indian riders and enhances their competitiveness in global equestrian events. Furthermore, the EDFC supports the growth of various horse-related activities in India, including breeding, sports, and high-value equine trade. By strengthening biosecurity measures and disease preparedness, the facility contributes to the overall development of the country’s equine industry.
Health Status and Compliance
The EDFC has been officially declared free from several serious equine diseases, including Equine Infectious Anemia, Equine Influenza, Equine Piroplasmosis, Glanders, and Surra. Additionally, India has maintained a historical record of being free from African Horse Sickness since 2014. This health status is crucial for ensuring that Indian sport horses meet international standards for travel and competition. The approval of the EDFC aligns with the WOAH Terrestrial Animal Health Code, which outlines the framework for compartmentalization, a science-based method for managing animal populations with distinct health statuses.
Collaboration and Implementation
The successful establishment of the EDFC is the result of collaborative efforts among various governmental and organizational bodies. Key players include the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, the Directorate of Remount Veterinary Services, the Equestrian Federation of India (EFI), and the Animal Husbandry Department of Uttar Pradesh. The facility operates under comprehensive Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) that cover disease exclusion protocols, pest control, hygiene, sanitation, and continuous health monitoring, all designed to meet international best practices.
Future Prospects and Broader Implications
India’s recognition of the EDFC underscores its commitment to implementing internationally harmonized animal health systems that facilitate safe trade. This achievement not only supports the equestrian sports sector but also reflects a broader strategy to enhance biosecurity and export readiness across various animal health sectors. India is also applying similar compartmentalization approaches to the poultry industry, developing Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) Free Compartments to ensure the safe export of poultry products. Collectively, these initiatives aim to build resilient animal health systems that align with global standards, promoting India’s position in international trade and animal health management.
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