WOAH (World Organisation for Animal Health)

WOAH (World Organisation for Animal Health)

Why it Matters? 

  • India established its first internationally recognised Equine Disease-Free Compartment (EDFC) at RVC Meerut, approved by WOAH, enabling global movement of Indian sport horses and boosting equestrian trade, biosecurity, and animal health standards. 

What You Should Know? 

  • WOAH was founded in 1924 as the Office International des Epizooties (OIE). 

  • It is headquartered in Paris, France. 

  • It was renamed as the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) in 2003. 

  • It is an intergovernmental organisation focused on global animal health and welfare. 

  • It has 183 member countries, including India. 

  • It publishes the Annual Report on Antimicrobial Agents Intended for Use in Animals. 

Equine Disease-Free Compartment (EDFC): 

  • India established its first Equine Disease-Free Compartment at RVC Centre, Meerut 

  • It was recognised internationally by WOAH on 3rd July 2025. 

  • It aims to allow the international movement of Indian sport horses under global standards. 

  • It supports equestrian sports, breeding, and high-value equine trade. 

  • It reflects India's leadership in harmonised, science-based animal health systems.