Delhi to microchip 10 lakh stray dogs in 2 years; track census, vaccination

“During the previous government’s tenure, the Animal Welfare Board did not meet for several years. This meeting has been convened to address all pending issues. Our aim is to make Delhi a model city in animal welfare,” Mishra said, adding that adequate funds were being provided for the initiative.

Other key decisions:
>> Dog census and monitoring system to be implemented soon for accurate data.
>> Mandatory registration of pet shops, with a dedicated monitoring committee to ensure compliance.
>> Animal Market Monitoring Committee to regulate animal markets.
>> Awareness drives in schools in collaboration with the Education Department.
>> Use of social media campaigns to boost public awareness on rabies and animal welfare.
>> Participation of Board members in national and international conferences and training.

Furthermore, the Board has approved proposals to transfer funds from the Delhi Advisory Board for Animal Welfare to the Delhi Animal Welfare Board, set up a Standing Committee and sub-committees, recruit staff, and authorise expenditure for smooth functioning.

Mishra said district-level Animal Welfare Committees would also be formed. “If financial assistance is required at any level, the Delhi government will provide it on priority,” he added.

The meeting follows the Supreme Court order, early this August, directing that stray dogs, once sterilised, dewormed, and vaccinated, be released back into the areas they were picked up from. The ruling came after protests by animal rights activists against an earlier directive to confine dogs to shelters.