Why in news?
The World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) recognised India’s first Equine Disease‑Free Compartment (EDFC) at the Remount Veterinary Corps (RVC) Centre and College in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh. It is the first facility of its kind in South Asia.
What is an EDFC?
- An EDFC is a defined area within a country where horses are maintained under stringent biosecurity measures to ensure freedom from specified infectious diseases—such as glanders, equine influenza, African horse sickness and equine infectious anaemia.
- Compartments are internationally recognised under WOAH guidelines. Animals originating from them can be exported without quarantine restrictions, boosting trade and sports participation.
Key features of the Meerut facility
- Biosecure enclosure: Horses are housed in isolated stables with controlled entry points, disinfection protocols and vector‑control measures.
- Health monitoring: Equines undergo regular screening for diseases, vaccination and continuous veterinary supervision. Staff follow strict hygiene practices.
- Traceability: Microchips and digital records track each horse’s movement, health status and breeding history.
- Training and research: The facility doubles as a centre for training veterinarians and studying equine diseases and vaccines.
Benefits
- International trade: India can export high‑quality horses for sports, racing and breeding without lengthy quarantines, expanding its share in the global equine industry.
- Sports excellence: Disease‑free compartments will help Indian riders compete in international equestrian events by ensuring access to healthy mounts.
- Model for other sectors: The concept can be extended to poultry and livestock compartments to secure export markets and protect animal health.