The Animal Welfare Board of India has recognized the lifelong dedication of S. Chinny Krishna to animal welfare by bestowing upon him the ‘Prani Mitra’ award for 2021. This prestigious accolade is a testament to Krishna’s unwavering commitment and service to the cause of animals. As the co-founder of Blue Cross of India, his contributions have been significant in the field of animal welfare.
‘Prani Mitra’ Award: The Highest Honor for Animal Welfare
The ‘Prani Mitra’ award stands as the most prestigious recognition for animal welfare in India. In 2021, this honor was awarded to S. Chinny Krishna for his lifetime of service to animals. The Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, Giriraj Singh, presented the award to Krishna in a ceremony held in New Delhi. This award not only celebrates individual achievements in the realm of animal welfare but also serves to inspire others to contribute to the cause.
A Legacy of Compassion
S. Chinny Krishna comes from a lineage of animal welfare advocates. His father, V. Sundaram, was a recipient of the ‘Prani Mitra’ award in 1997, highlighting a family legacy dedicated to the well-being of animals. Krishna’s work has been widely recognized; he has received the Jeev Daya Puraskar and accolades from international organizations such as the Humane Society of the United States for his efforts following the devastating 2004 tsunami. His list of honors includes the Karuna Award and the Life Time Award from Humane Society International, further underscoring his impact on animal welfare.
Blue Cross of India: A Foundation for Animal Welfare
The Blue Cross of India (BCI) is a cornerstone of animal welfare in the country. Established in the year 1964 under the Societies Registration Act, BCI has been at the forefront of animal rescue, healthcare, and advocacy. Based in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, the organization has been a pioneer in promoting the humane treatment of animals and has been instrumental in numerous animal welfare initiatives throughout the years.
The Role of the Animal Welfare Board of India
The Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) plays an advisory role to the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying. Founded in 1962 with its headquarters in Ballabhgarh, Haryana, AWBI is tasked with ensuring that animal welfare laws are diligently followed and provides guidance on the humane treatment of animals nationwide. The board’s responsibilities include overseeing animal welfare organizations, providing grants to such entities, and advising the government on animal welfare issues.
S. Chinny Krishna’s receipt of the ‘Prani Mitra’ award serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for all those involved in the mission of improving the lives of animals in India. His life’s work, alongside the efforts of organizations like the Blue Cross of India and the guidance of the Animal Welfare Board of India, continues to shape a more compassionate society where the welfare of animals is a priority.
