India is grappling with a complex and escalating street dog crisis, where the lines between furry friends and potential foes are increasingly blurred. With a massive stray dog population, rising dog bite incidents, and the constant threat of rabies, the issue has become a significant public safety concern.

The Growing Crisis

India has an estimated 6 crore (60 million) stray dogs, potentially the highest number in the world. This unchecked population growth has led to a surge in dog bite cases, with over 1.6 crore (16 million) cases officially recorded between 2019 and 2022. In 2023, there were 3 million reported dog bite cases, followed by 2.195 million in 2024. Certain states have witnessed alarming spikes; for example, Punjab reported a 47% jump in dog bite cases from 2022 to 2024. Children are particularly vulnerable, comprising around 20% of dog bite victims.

Rabies: A Persistent Threat

The most concerning consequence of the growing stray dog population is the spread of rabies. India accounts for 36% of global rabies deaths, with an estimated 18,000 to 20,000 people dying annually from the disease. While official data recorded 48 rabies deaths in 2024, experts believe the actual numbers are much higher due to underreporting, especially in rural areas. Despite a reported 75% reduction in rabies-related deaths in recent years, approximately 5,700 people still die annually in India from rabies. The government aims to eliminate rabies deaths by 2030.

Factors Contributing to the Crisis

Several factors contribute to India's street dog dilemma:

• Ineffective Animal Birth Control (ABC) Programs: Sterilization and vaccination are considered the most effective and humane ways to control stray dog populations and prevent rabies. However, ABC programs across India face challenges such as limited funding, insufficient infrastructure, lack of trained personnel, and public opposition. To effectively reduce stray dog numbers, at least 70% of the population in a given area must be sterilized, but most Indian cities struggle to achieve this coverage.
• Poor Waste Management: Improper waste disposal provides a food source for stray dogs, contributing to their population growth.
• Lack of Awareness: Many citizens are unaware of rabies prevention, responsible feeding practices, and how to engage with authorities for stray dog sterilization.
• Policy Paralysis: Inconsistent implementation of animal control policies and a lack of coordination between various government bodies hinder effective management of the stray dog population.
• Pet Abandonment and Illegal Breeding: Many stray dogs are abandoned pets or their unsterilized offspring. Stricter laws against pet abandonment and illegal breeding are needed to curb the influx of new strays.

Legal Framework and Animal Welfare

The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act of 1960 (PCA Act) is a landmark legislation that provides a legal basis for the humane treatment of all animals, including street dogs. Section 428 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) provides a legal deterrent for those who harm animals, including stray dogs. The Animal Birth Control (Dogs) Rules, 2001, and later the Animal Birth Control Rules, 2023, were established to manage street dog populations humanely through sterilization, vaccination, and return to their original localities. The Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) plays a crucial role in promoting animal welfare, providing education and awareness, and advising the government on animal welfare matters.

Solutions and the Way Forward

Addressing India's street dog dilemma requires a multi-pronged approach:

• Strengthening ABC Programs: Scaling up sterilization infrastructure, increasing funding, implementing real-time monitoring, and utilizing mobile ABC vans are crucial for effective population control.
• Improving Waste Management: Proper waste disposal practices can reduce food sources for stray dogs, limiting their population growth.
• Increasing Public Awareness: Educating citizens about rabies prevention, responsible feeding practices, and how to access sterilization services is essential.
• Enforcing Stricter Laws: Implementing and enforcing stricter laws against pet abandonment and illegal breeding can help control the influx of stray dogs.
• Promoting Adoption: Encouraging the adoption of stray dogs from shelters can reduce the number of animals on the streets.
• Government Initiatives: A mission-mode campaign backed by the central government, involving various ministries, urban development bodies, and municipal corporations, is needed to address the issue effectively.
• Community Participation: Engaging local communities in animal welfare efforts and responsible feeding practices can foster a more compassionate and sustainable approach.

While challenges persist, there have been some successes. For example, Goa has retained its rabies-free status since 2017 through sustained partnerships between government agencies and NGOs. Some cities, like Vadodara, have achieved high sterilization rates. The state government has also asked the local authorities to put in place a plan and ensure adequate infrastructure and equipment in all animal birth control centers.

The street dog issue in India remains a complex challenge that requires a collaborative and compassionate approach, balancing animal welfare with public safety concerns.