The Animal Birth Control (ABC) Rules, 2023, aim to control stray dog populations and eradicate rabies through sterilisation and vaccination. Recent developments show the need for a coordinated regional and national approach beyond single-city efforts. Effective implementation depends on multi-level monitoring, adequate funding, and political commitment.
Regional Approach to Dog Population Control
Stray dogs are territorial and rarely move between areas. Removing dogs from one city, such as Delhi, without addressing neighbouring states leads to other dogs moving in. Therefore, reducing dog populations in Delhi requires simultaneous efforts in Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, and Bihar. This regional strategy prevents population displacement and ensures lasting results.
Central and State Monitoring Committees
The ABC Rules mandate the formation of a Central Monitoring and Coordination Committee and State Animal Birth Control Monitoring Committees. The central committee coordinates policy, research, and funding. It meets biannually or as needed. State committees meet quarterly and oversee local implementation, infrastructure, and complaints. These bodies ensure scientific and phased programme execution.
Role of NGOs and Funding Challenges
NGOs currently conduct much of the sterilisation and vaccination work, often funded by private donations. Government support and timely payments to NGOs are critical to sustain efforts. Delays and funding gaps hinder programme effectiveness. Delhi lacks a state monitoring committee, which is vital for organised action and resource allocation.
Why Mass Culling and Relocation Fail
Mass culling or relocating dogs to shelters does not reduce stray populations. Studies by the World Health Organisation and animal welfare experts show that dog populations quickly rebound after removals. New dogs fill vacated territories, leading to repeated cycles of population growth and control efforts. Sterilisation and vaccination with return to original areas prevent this cycle.
Benefits of Sterilisation and Vaccination
Returning sterilised and vaccinated dogs to their communities keeps unsterilised dogs out. Sterilised females do not come into heat, reducing fights and aggression among dogs. This lowers the risk of dog bites and improves public safety. Sterilised dogs also do not produce puppies, gradually reducing population growth. Familiarity with their territory makes community dogs less aggressive.
Political Will and Implementation
The success of the ABC programme relies on strong political will at central and state levels. Adequate funding, consistent policy support, and institutional commitment are essential. Without these, efforts remain fragmented and ineffective. Establishing monitoring committees and increasing government funding are immediate priorities.
Scientific and Humane Dog Population Management
The ABC Rules promote humane methods based on scientific evidence. Coordinated efforts involving multiple stakeholders ensure sustainable dog population control and rabies prevention. The programme’s phased approach covers urban and rural areas systematically, avoiding repeated sterilisation cycles and reducing cruelty.
Questions for UPSC:
- Discuss the importance of regional cooperation in managing stray animal populations in India with examples.
- Critically examine the role of government and non-governmental organisations in implementing animal welfare programmes in India.
- Explain the challenges faced in controlling zoonotic diseases such as rabies in urban India. How can integrated policy measures address these issues?
- With suitable examples, discuss the impact of political will and funding on the success of public health initiatives in India.
