As World Rabies Day approaches on September 28, the Delhi government has introduced a comprehensive action plan to strengthen animal welfare and curb the rising threat of rabies.
Under the new rules, all pet shops and breeding centers in the capital will have to register mandatorily. To further enhance accountability, the government has announced the microchipping of 10 lakh dogs over the next two years, in association with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). This step aims to improve traceability while promoting responsible ownership.
The initiatives also include digital vaccination records, uninterrupted availability of rabies vaccines, expansion of gaushalas, and a structured approach to community feeding of stray animals. Labour Minister Kapil Mishra highlighted that animal care and rabies prevention will now be among Delhi’s top priorities.
A similar framework was initiated earlier in Chennai, targeting better regulation of pet ownership and reducing dog-bite incidents. In Delhi, starting next month, pet licensing will require proof of microchip implantation along with valid anti-rabies vaccination (ARV) records. Non-compliance will attract a penalty of ₹3,000.
Expanding Stray Management and Feeding Points
To address stray animal management, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has directed that feeding points be set up in every ward. MCD Standing Committee chairperson Satya Sharma stated that three to four designated feeding zones will be created per ward in consultation with local councillors. This move is intended to discourage unregulated feeding in public spaces, which often results in conflicts and pack formation.
The MCD is also intensifying sterilisation and vaccination drives at Animal Birth Control (ABC) centers. A dedicated sub-committee is drafting long-term strategies to control stray populations and prevent the spread of diseases like rabies. Officials have been asked to submit action reports within a week to review progress.
Sharma stressed that recent Supreme Court directions to combat the dog-bite menace have added urgency to these reforms. She appealed to councillors, citizens, and NGOs to join hands in making the initiative successful.
