In a historic initiative, the Punjab Government has for the first time implemented a coordinated state-level action plan to deal with the long-standing problem of stray animals in the state. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, this scheme is an attempt to convert the assurance of amendments made in the “Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act” into actual policy.

What did Minister Dr. Ravjot Singh say?

Local Government Department Minister Dr. Ravjot Singh told in the Assembly that all the concerned departments and stakeholders are working together in this scheme. This multi-agency effort is a decisive step towards managing stray animals and reducing their associated threats in the state.

The government has already implemented “The Punjab Compensation to Victims of Animal Attacks and Accidents Policy, 2023”. Under this, immediate financial assistance will be given to the families affected by the attack of stray animals, so that they do not have to face any kind of financial difficulty.

More than 2 lakh stray animals sheltered in 518 registered cow sheds

At present, more than 2 lakh stray animals have been given shelter in 518 registered cow shelters in the state. The Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Department has constructed 77 animal sheds in 20 government animal pounds, while urban local bodies have set up 10 new shelters. Apart from this, financial assistance is also being provided to Gaushalas through Cow Cess Fund and resources of local bodies.

A strong system has also been prepared at the district level. Officials have been instructed to complete the work of sending stray animals to cow shelters by March 31. For this, the facility of 24 hours active helpline number 9646-222-555 has also been made available. Through this, immediate action will be taken on any attack or complaint.

The Deputy Commissioner’s office has coordinated with all the cow shelters in the district and a target has been set to provide protection to about 150 stray animals per district. The arrangement for budget allocation has also been ensured so that the cow shelters can get payment on time.

Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann himself is monitoring the campaign.

Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann himself is monitoring this campaign and all district officers have been given strict instructions to complete it on priority basis. The aim of the scheme is not only to remove stray animals from the streets but also to ensure their proper care and rehabilitation.

This initiative of Punjab government can prove to be a model for other states. It shows that with solid planning, adequate budgeting and political will, it is possible to solve any complex problem, ensuring both public safety and animal welfare.