Compassion for Animal Welfare Granted Approval for Stray Dog Vaccination Drive

Rapid Summary

• The Local Self Government Department (LSGD) has given full permission to the NGO Compassion for Animal Welfare Association (CAWA) to conduct mass stray dog vaccination drives and public awareness campaigns across the State.
• CAWA had requested permission last year to increase its activities and currently collaborates with LSGD and the Animal Husbandry department in some regions on Animal Birth Control (ABC) initiatives.
• vaccines are provided by the Animal Husbandry department, while local bodies cover costs related to capturing stray dogs and executing vaccinations. CAWA’s involvement has addressed personnel shortages for these activities.
• Recent measures include an LSGD order permitting local bodies to euthanize diseased stray dogs under provisions of Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Rules 2023. However, this was paused by a Kerala High Court ruling last week.
• Minister M.B. Rajesh has urged amendments in ABC rules at the Union level,arguing that stringent requirements under these rules hinder sterilization activities.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The blanket authorization granted to CAWA marks a substantial policy move aimed at tackling rising cases of stray dog bites through coordinated vaccination and awareness campaigns statewide. It also highlights ongoing collaboration among NGOs, local governments, and departments such as Animal Husbandry in addressing resource gaps like personnel shortages.

Though, key challenges persist: The temporary suspension of euthanasia orders by Kerala High Court underscores legal complexities surrounding animal welfare policies.additionally, Minister Rajesh’s call for amending national ABC rules suggests that procedural bottlenecks may still inhibit long-term progress in sterilization programs. Tackling these issues effectively could lead not only to improved human safety but also better-managed animal populations across urban spaces.

Source Link: indian Opinion