(a) whether the number of rabies cases/ deaths due to biting by stray dogs has increased in the country;
(b) if so, the details thereof during the last three years especially among children;
(c) whether the Government has any effective mechanism to control/ curb such incidents in future and if so, the details thereof; and
(d) the other measures being taken by the Government including issue of advisories to the State Governments in this regard?
MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT, FOREST AND CLIMATE CHANGE
(SHRI ANIL MADHAV DAVE)
(a) & (b)The Ministry does not maintain the details of number of rabies cases/ deaths due to biting by stray dogs as this falls under the responsibility of state governments and local authorities. However, the Government has taken cognizance of incidents of rabies cases/ death due to biting of stray dogs reported inter-alia through media.
(c) & (d)The government has notified the Animal Birth Control (Dogs) Rules, 2001 (and amended in 2010) to control and manage the population of stray dogs through immunization, sterilization and licensing. The responsibility of implementing the rules and carrying out the relevant Animal Birth Control program to control the street/stray dog population and prevention of rabies vests with the local bodies. Further, in Special Leave Petition (Civil) No. 691 of 2009, the Supreme Court has directed all state governments to implement the Animal Birth Control (Dogs) Rules, 2001.
*****