India has established its first Equine Disease-Free Compartment (EDFC) at the Remount Veterinary Corps Centre in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, officially recognized by the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) in July 2025. This biosecure zone ensures a sub-population of horses remains free from key equine diseases through strict biosecurity measures, enabling Indian sport horses to participate in international competitions and trade. The EDFC certification, supported by multiple government and equestrian bodies, guarantees disease exclusion, surveillance, and welfare protocols aligned with global standards, marking a significant advancement in India’s animal health infrastructure.

This milestone enhances India’s biosecurity ecosystem and trade credibility, facilitating elite horse breeding, genetics exchange, and export opportunities while boosting veterinary innovation and employment. It also sets a precedent for similar compartmentalisation efforts in other livestock sectors, such as poultry. Overall, the EDFC reflects India’s strategic vision to build resilient, export-ready animal health systems that strengthen its global trade standing, support food security, and open new markets for farmers and entrepreneurs.