The Indian government is set to establish Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD)-free zones in eight states as part of a strategic initiative to enhance exports of animal products. This announcement was made by Alka Upadhyaya, Secretary of the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, at a workshop organized by the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) and the department, which concluded on August 30.

The creation of FMD-free zones is a key component of the government’s broader effort to address major animal infectious diseases. Upadhyaya highlighted that significant progress has been made under the National Control Programme, which targets four critical diseases: FMD, Peste des Petits Ruminants, Brucellosis, and Classical Swine Fever.

“The establishment of these FMD-free zones will play a crucial role in improving the health of our livestock and increasing the competitiveness of our animal products in the global market,” Upadhyaya stated. “This initiative aligns with our goals of bolstering exports and ensuring high standards of animal health and product quality.”

The initiative comes as part of a broader strategy to enhance the export potential of India’s animal products, which includes dairy, meat, and other livestock-based goods. By creating disease-free zones, the government aims to meet international standards and reduce trade barriers related to animal health concerns.

The FAO workshop focused on prioritizing strategies for controlling animal diseases and provided a platform for discussing best practices and collaborative efforts in tackling these challenges. The event underscored the importance of coordinated efforts between government agencies, international organizations, and local stakeholders in advancing animal health.

With the implementation of FMD-free zones, the Indian government hopes to boost the country’s standing in the global animal product market and ensure that Indian exports meet the stringent requirements of international buyers.