Rapid Fire
India’s First Equine Disease-Free Compartment
- 08 Jul 2025
- 2 min read
India has set up its first Equine Disease-Free Compartment (EDFC) in Meerut Cantonment, Uttar Pradesh, which has been officially recognized by the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH).
- About EDFC: It is a scientifically managed and internationally recognized zone that guarantees horses are free from specific equine diseases, enabling them to engage in global trade and competitions.
- It has been established under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying.
- Certification for Disease-Free Status: The EDFC is certified free from major equine diseases, including Equine Infectious Anemia, Equine Influenza, Equine Piroplasmosis, Glanders, and Surra.
- Part of India’s Disease-Free Compartment Strategy: The EDFC is a key element of India's broader strategy to create disease-free compartments, which also includes Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI)-Free Zones for safe poultry exports.
- India has maintained a disease-free status for African Horse Sickness since 2014, further strengthening its position in the global equine community.
- Equine diseases: These are diseases that impact horses, donkeys, mules, and other members of the equine family (Equidae). They can be infectious in nature, caused by viruses, bacteria, or parasites.
| Read More: State of the World’s Animal Health Report |
