Source: PIB

Disclaimer: Copyright infringement not intended.

Context

ICAR-NRC Equine has achieved an international honor by being designated as a Reference Laboratory by the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH).

This status highlights India's dedication to advancing animal health research in combating equine piroplasmosis, a disease affecting horses, donkeys, mules, and similar animals.

What is the ICAR-NRC Equine?

The Indian Council of Agricultural Research – National Research Centre on Equines (ICAR-NRC Equine) is a research center focused on the health and wellbeing of equines (horses, donkeys, mules, etc.).

Located in Hisar, Haryana, the center now joins a select group of laboratories recognized globally for its standards in animal disease diagnostics and research.

Why is the WOAH Recognition Important?

Receiving WOAH Reference Laboratory status is a significant achievement because it confirms that ICAR-NRC Equine meets the highest global standards for animal health research and diagnostics. As a WOAH Reference Laboratory, ICAR-NRC Equine will:

Work with other countries to share research and technical expertise.

Offer advanced diagnostic services to help detect and control equine diseases.

Conduct important research, especially on equine piroplasmosis, benefiting both national and international equine industries.

India's Equine Population

India has around 0.55 million equines, including horses, donkeys, and mules, which play essential roles in livelihoods and industries. Key states with high equine populations include Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Haryana. This designation enhances India’s reputation in animal health on a global scale.

What is Equine Piroplasmosis?

Equine piroplasmosis is a tick-borne disease affecting horses, donkeys, and mules. Caused by two parasites—Babesia caballi and Theileria equi—it impacts the health and productivity of these animals. The disease can lead to severe economic losses due to health deterioration, decreased productivity, and export restrictions on equines.

Tools for Combating Equine Piroplasmosis

ICAR-NRC Equine has developed several advanced tools for detecting equine piroplasmosis:

ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay) identifies antibodies related to the disease. Competitive ELISA helps in precise detection of antibodies.

Indirect Fluorescent Antibody Test detects antibodies by examining fluorescent markers.

PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) detects the presence of the disease-causing parasites directly from blood samples.

These tools help in early diagnosis, making it easier to manage and control the disease.

About ICAR

Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) is an autonomous body responsible for co-ordinating agricultural education and research in India. It was established    on 16 July 1929. It reports to the Department of Agricultural Research and Education, Ministry of Agriculture. The Union Minister of Agriculture serves as its president. It is the largest network of agricultural research and education institutes in the world.

About WOAH

World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), formerly the Office International des Epizooties (OIE), is an intergovernmental organisation founded in 1924, coordinating, supporting and promoting animal disease control. The primary objective of WOAH is to control epizootic diseases and prevent their spread. Further objectives include the sharing of transparent, scientific information; international solidarity; sanitary safety; and the promotion of veterinary services‚ food safety and animal welfare.

WOAH is recognised by the World Trade Organisation (WTO) as an international reference for the safe trade of animals and animal products regarding risks due to animal diseases and zoonoses.

WOAH is not a part of the United Nations (UN) system.

Sources:

PIB 

PRACTICE QUESTION Q.With regard to equines, consider the following statements: Equines refer to animals belonging to the family Equidae, which includes horses, donkeys, and zebras. Horses are the only species within the equine family that are considered domesticated. India has indigenous breeds of equines like the Marwari horse. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 and 3 only (b) 1 and 2 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2, and 3 Answer: (a) Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. The term "equine" refers to animals within the family Equidae. It includes horses, donkeys, zebras & their relatives. These animals share common physical characteristics & belong to the same family in biological classification​. Statement 2 is incorrect. While horses are commonly domesticated, donkeys are also widely domesticated for use in agriculture, transportation & other purposes. Zebras are usually not domesticated due to their temperament & resistance to training​. Statement 3 is correct. India has several indigenous equine breeds. For example: Marwari & Kathiawari horses are valued for their endurance, agility, & adaptability to the country’s diverse climates.