India is accelerating its efforts to achieve Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD)-free status in nine states within the next two years, a strategic move aimed at unlocking access to the high-value European dairy market and strengthening the country’s global dairy export potential.
The initiative is part of the government’s broader goal of making India FMD-free by 2030, with priority states selected based on advanced vaccination coverage and disease surveillance. According to the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD), FMD prevalence has declined from 16.6% in 2022 to 7.8% in 2026, supported by the administration of more than 1.4 billion FMD vaccine doses under the National Animal Disease Control Programme (NADCP).
Achieving internationally recognised FMD-free zones is expected to improve market access for Indian milk and dairy products, particularly in Europe, where stringent animal health standards govern imports. The government believes that stronger disease control will not only boost dairy exports but also improve livestock productivity, enhance farmer incomes and reinforce India’s position as the world’s largest milk producer.
The initiative underscores India’s growing focus on animal health, biosecurity and export-oriented dairy development as it seeks to expand its presence in premium global dairy markets. (Taxindiaonline)
Source: Dairynews7x7 17 July, 2026 Read full article here
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