Odisha to Sterilise, Vaccinate Seven Lakh Stray Dogs: Minister

The Odisha government will soon launch a massive drive to sterilise and vaccinate around seven lakh stray dogs across the state, in line with the recent directions of the Supreme Court, Fisheries and Animal Resources Development Minister Gokulananda Mallick said on Saturday.

Speaking to reporters, the minister assured that the state would implement the apex court’s guidelines in “letter and spirit.” He noted that Odisha has an estimated seven lakh stray dogs and nearly 64,000 domestic dogs.

The sterilisation and vaccination programme is expected to control the stray dog population and reduce risks of rabies and other public health concerns.

Officials said preparations are underway to roll out the campaign in coordination with local bodies and animal welfare organisations.