Punjab launches its first state-level stray animal management plan, with shelters, helplines, and coordinated efforts to ensure public safety and animal welfare.

stray animal management : To address the long-standing issue of stray animals, the state government of Punjab has for the first time in its history established a coordinated, state-level action plan. The government of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has made a tangible policy out of the pledge that was previously made during the discussion of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act modification.

For the first time, all departments and stakeholders are collaborating to address this problem, Local Government Minister Dr. Ravjot Singh told the Assembly. Coordination between all relevant ministries is ensured by the Local Government Department, which is spearheading this multi-agency endeavor.

The Punjab Compensation to Victims of Animal Attacks and Accidents Policy, 2023, was already put into effect by the government to aid those who have been attacked by animals. Families impacted by stray animal assaults can receive urgent financial assistance under this policy, preventing them from experiencing financial difficulty.

The government has taken important steps to control the present number of stray animals. There are 518 recognized gaushalas (cow shelters) that have provided shelter to almost 2 lakh stray animals. Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) have established 10 new animal shelters, and the Department of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj has constructed 77 animal sheds in 20 government pounds.

ULBs are regularly given instructions to step up their efforts to catch and care for the animals. Through the Cow Cess fund and ULB resources, the Gaushalas are receiving financial support, guaranteeing that no work is left unfinished. This substantial financial backing demonstrates how seriously the government takes this issue.

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A robust system has also been built at the district level. The deadline for district officers to finish the process of transferring stray animals to shelters is March 31. There is now a helpline (9646-222-555) where individuals can report animal attack events. Because the helpline is open around-the-clock, every complaint is handled quickly.

It has been instructed that Deputy Commissioners work with the local Gaushalas in their respective regions. For instance, the goal in district Pussal is to relocate about 150 stray animals to shelters. To guarantee that Gaushalas are paid on schedule, budgetary provisions are being made through the Collectorate (CMO).

The campaign is being closely watched by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, who has directed all district officials to give it great importance. In addition to removing stray animals off the highways, the government also wants to make sure they receive the care and rehabilitation they need. This demonstrates a kind and sympathetic approach that is in line with animal welfare ideals.

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This program might serve as a template for other Indian states. Even the most complicated problems can be solved with political will, careful planning, and appropriate budgeting, as demonstrated by Punjab’s coordinated and multi-departmental approach. In addition to ensuring public safety, this initiative demonstrates the government’s steadfast support for animal welfare.