Goa Launches Anti-Rabies Drive to Safeguard Public from Dog Attacks

Panaji: Goa’s Minister for Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services, Nilkant Halarnkar, kicked off an anti-rabies drive on Friday, emphasizing the need to protect vulnerable groups from dog attacks.

Speaking at the launch of a free vaccination and education campaign, Halarnkar stressed the government's responsibility for public safety, particularly for children who face the highest risk. “We are committed to maintaining Goa’s rabies-free status. The biggest threat comes from stray dogs entering from Karnataka and Maharashtra, increasing exposure to rabies,” he stated.

The initiative, led by the Directorate of Animal Husbandry, Mission Rabies Goa, and local NGOs, featured a children’s rally, a digital awareness vehicle, and a doggie float parade, all flagged off by the minister at Sriram Vidya Mandir, Colvale. The rally focused on educating the public about rabies prevention, while the parade underscored the importance of vaccination and responsible pet ownership.

As part of the campaign, the government will offer free rabies vaccinations for both stray and owned dogs. Additionally, a sterilization drive for non-neutered stray dogs will take place across Bardez from February 24 to 28, aiming to curb rabies and reduce dog attacks, ensuring public safety.