Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji

Panaji, Feb 21: Goa's Minister for Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services, Nilkant Halarnkar, on Friday launched a state-wide anti-rabies drive, stressing the urgency of protecting vulnerable groups from ferocious dog attacks.

Speaking at the inauguration of a free vaccination and education campaign, Halarnkar said, “The government is responsible for citizens’ safety, and small children are most at risk from dog attacks. This initiative aims to maintain Goa’s rabies-free status, but stray dogs entering from Karnataka and Maharashtra pose a growing threat.”

The drive follows the tragic death of a seven-year-old boy in Anjuna after a pitbull attack, as reported earlier.

The campaign, launched in collaboration with the directorate of Animal Husbandry, Mission Rabies Goa, and local NGOs, kicked off with a children’s rally, a digital awareness vehicle, and a doggie float parade at Sriram Vidya Mandir, Colvale. The event emphasized responsible pet ownership and the importance of vaccination.

As part of the initiative, the government will conduct free vaccination and sterilization drives for stray and owned dogs across Bardez from February 24 to 28, aiming to curb rabies and enhance public safety.