• Smt. Alka Upadhyaya, Secretary of Animal Husbandry, chaired a National Webinar on the eve of World Rabies Day 2024.

• Key officials and over 1000 participants from veterinary departments, universities, and NGOs attended.

• She urged for collaborative efforts to eliminate dog-mediated rabies, prioritising  mass dog vaccination (MDV) as the most cost-effective control method.

• The importance of controlling stray dog populations for effective rabies prevention was tressed upon.

• The session highlighted public awareness, responsible pet ownership, and coordinated vaccination efforts.

• Success stories from Goa, Kerala, and Sikkim were shared, showcasing effective models of rabies control through mass vaccination, sterilization, and awareness campaigns.

• Dr. Simmi Tiwari, Joint Director and Head, Centre for One Health NCDC provided updates on India’s National Rabies Control Program, targeting rabies elimination by 2030.

• Emphasis was placed on improving rabies surveillance, legislation, and reporting systems.

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