KATHUA, DECEMBER 10: The District Administration Kathua has reconstituted the Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) Committee to strengthen the animal welfare mechanism and ensure effective implementation of directions issued by the Supreme Court of India.
The District Development Commissioner will act as the chairman of the committee, with the Chief Animal Husbandry Officer serving as the Member Secretary. The Committee also includes DFO Territorial, Assistant Warden Wildlife, Dy SP Headquarters, District Panchayat Officer, Executive Officer Municipal Council and a Lt. Colonel–rank Army officer as members.
Chairing a meeting in this regard, the DC underlined the mandate of the SPCA Committee, stating that its primary responsibility is to ensure scientific, humane and coordinated management of stray animals across the district. He asked stakeholder departments to work in synergy to implement the prescribed procedures and protocols for animal care, relocation and safety.
During the meeting, discussions were held on key responsibilities to be implemented by the stakeholder departments. These included removal and relocation of stray cattle and dogs from highways, institutional areas and public spaces to designated shelters by Municipal Bodies, PWD, NHAI and RDD. Provision of proper boundary protection around educational institutions, hospitals, stadiums, bus stands and similar premises was discussed as an essential measure to prevent entry of stray dogs. The need for regular inspection by municipal authorities and panchayats to identify and eliminate stray dog habitats also came under focus.
Further, the deliberations centered on ensuring that the relocated animals undergo sterilization, vaccination and timely veterinary care as per approved guidelines. Maintaining sufficient stocks of anti-rabies vaccines and immunoglobulin at hospitals was highlighted. The Committee also discussed the role of the Education Department in conducting awareness programmes on preventive behaviour around animals, first-aid measures in case of bites and proper reporting mechanisms.
The DC called for strict adherence to the court-mandated directions and timelines, directing the departments to initiate joint enforcement drives in vulnerable areas. He instructed each department to submit weekly progress reports to the SPCA Member Secretary and ensure close coordination with shelter homes, Gaushalas and veterinary facilities for smooth implementation.
