Delhi Government Unveils New Policy to Address Stray Animal Concerns and Sterilisation Data Inaccuracies

Delhi Development Minister Kapil Mishra announces a new policy aimed at addressing the city's stray animal issue. He highlights inaccuracies in sterilisation data and the need for effective measures to ensure animal welfare.

Delhi Development Minister Kapil Mishra announced plans for a new policy to tackle the city's stray animal problem. The approach aims to balance the welfare of animals and citizens. Mishra criticised false sterilisation data, stating, "If the reported sterilisation numbers were accurate, we wouldn't be seeing such a severe stray dog issue in Delhi." Consultations are ongoing to address this issue.

Chief Minister Rekha Gupta is spearheading efforts to develop a policy for managing stray animals in Delhi. Mishra mentioned that recent meetings included representatives from sterilisation and animal care organisations. Discussions focused on identifying policy gaps and necessary changes in law and implementation. The government seeks a balanced approach that considers animal welfare and public safety.

Animal Welfare Policy Development

The meeting was attended by former Union Minister Maneka Gandhi, various NGOs, and officials from the Animal Husbandry Unit, Veterinary Department, and Development Department. Participants discussed structural reforms needed for Animal Birth Control (ABC) programmes. Concerns included irregular ABC committee meetings and lack of standardised procedures for implementing agencies.

Mishra emphasised the need for mandatory registration and accreditation of all involved agencies. Suggestions included zone-wise allocation of ABC responsibilities, regulations for monitoring pet breeders and shops, and establishing an organ-counting team to audit sterilisation outcomes. A centralised animal helpline proposal was also discussed for handling emergencies and grievances.

Infrastructure and Training Enhancements

Improving infrastructure at ABC centres was a major topic. NGO representatives stressed the need for isolation and quarantine kennels for infected or recovering animals. They also highlighted the importance of structured training programs for veterinarians, handlers, para-veterinarians, and program managers to enhance sterilisation and vaccination effectiveness.

Expanding vaccination drives against canine distemper and parvovirus was deemed crucial to improve animal health and reduce disease outbreaks. Officials were advised to strengthen monitoring systems for effective ABC rule implementation. It was suggested that each ABC centre should have a management committee to ensure transparency and accountability.

Community Involvement and Awareness

Mishra proposed launching awareness campaigns in schools to instil empathy among children about responsible pet ownership and peaceful coexistence with stray animals. He expressed confidence that with a scientific approach, mission-driven action plan, improved infrastructure, and vigilant monitoring, Delhi could become a model city in animal welfare and public safety.

The Supreme Court recently took suo motu cognisance of media reports on dog bites leading to rabies. It noted that daily incidents were reported in the city and outskirts, affecting children and the elderly. Mishra believes that adopting best practices from other Indian states and international cities could enhance Delhi's animal welfare mechanisms.

A comprehensive model will soon be implemented in mission mode in Delhi, according to Mishra. The government aims to ensure compassion and sensitivity are integral to every intervention involving dog catchers, NGO workers, and officials trained in humane methods.

With inputs from PTI