The central government reported on 22 July 2025 that more than 37 lakh instances of dog bites and 54 suspected cases of human rabies-related deaths were recorded across the country in 2024.
In a written response to the Lok Sabha, Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, S.P. Singh Baghel, stated that the figures were compiled by the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) under the National Rabies Control Programme. According to the data, a total of 37,17,336 dog bite cases were registered in 2024, along with 54 suspected human rabies deaths.
Minister Baghel noted that the responsibility for managing stray dog populations lies with urban local bodies. Municipal authorities are implementing the Animal Birth Control (ABC) Programme, which aims to control the number of stray dogs through sterilization and anti-rabies vaccination.
He further added that the Central Government has notified the Animal Birth Control Rules, 2023, under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960. These rules emphasize humane population control through neutering and immunization against rabies.
In November 2024, the Ministry issued an advisory to all States, urging them to implement the ABC Programme through local governing bodies. This initiative is particularly focused on improving public safety and protecting children especially young ones from stray dog attacks.
The Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) has also released several advisories and guidelines to support these efforts. In response to complaints related to the feeding of community animals, AWBI communicates with Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs), Apartment Owners’ Associations (AOAs), or relevant local authorities to take suitable action.
From the fiscal year 2024–25 up to June 2025, AWBI has issued 166 such official letters, the minister added.
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