Equine Disease Free Compartment:
India’s has established and secured global recognition for its first Equine Disease-Free Compartment (EDFC).
- Equine Disease-Free Compartment is a scientifically managed, globally recognized area that guarantees horses are free from certain equine diseases, enabling them to engage in international trade and competitions.
- The EDFC operates under comprehensive Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) encompassing disease exclusion protocols, pest control, physical security, hygiene, sanitation, animal health monitoring, waste management, and continuous surveillance, all aligned with international best practices.
- It is recognised by the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH).
- The facility is approved at the Remount Veterinary Corps (RVC) Centre & College, Meerut Cantonment, Uttar Pradesh.
- It is established under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying.
- The EDFC has been officially declared free from Equine Infectious Anemia, Equine Influenza, Equine Piroplasmosis, Glanders, and Surra.
- India has historically remained free from African Horse Sickness since 2014.
- It marks a major step towards enabling the international movement of Indian sport horses in compliance with global biosecurity and animal health standards.
- With the implementation of robust biosecurity protocols, stringent veterinary surveillance, and adherence to international norms, Indian sport horses from this facility can now be eligible to travel and compete abroad.
- This significantly enhances the prospects of Indian riders and horses in global equestrian competitions and raises India’s profile in the international equestrian arena.
- The compartment also supports the broader development of horse-related activities in the country including sports, breeding, and high-value equine trade while strengthening India’s biosecurity and disease preparedness framework.
