The Indian Veterinary Association will assist in procedures, and seriously ill or endangered dogs may be euthanised with veterinary certification.
Published Jul 17, 2025 | 7:32 AM ⚊ Updated Jul 17, 2025 | 7:32 AM
Stray dogs on a street. (iStock)
In a significant move to control the stray dog population, Kerala’s Local Self-Government Department will launch mobile portable Animal Birth Control (ABC) centres in 152 blocks, Local Self-Government Minister MB Rajesh announced on Wednesday, 16 July.
A pilot project will begin in Nedumangadu, Thiruvananthapuram, before full-scale deployment. Each unit, costing ₹28 lakh, is expected to be operational within two months of order placement. An extensive vaccination drive for stray dogs is planned for August, followed by a camp in September to vaccinate and license pet dogs.
The initiative, jointly coordinated by the Animal Husbandry, Law, and Local Self-Government departments, also includes plans for chipping dogs with a 12-digit ID to track their address, vaccination status, and license. The Animal Husbandry Department has trained 158 dog catchers and will enlist more via Kudumbashree.
₹300 will be paid for each dog captured for sterilisation. The Indian Veterinary Association will assist in procedures, and seriously ill or endangered dogs may be euthanised with veterinary certification.
People’s committees will oversee operations, while police will act against those obstructing efforts. The state will also approach the Union government seeking relaxation in the ABC rules, citing public resistance and legal challenges.
