The Supreme Court on Tuesday issued a series of important directions aimed at improving animal welfare and controlling the growing stray animal problem across the country.
The court ordered all states to strengthen and effectively implement the framework rules laid down by the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI). It directed state governments to ensure that every district has at least one fully functional Animal Birth Control (ABC) centre.
Recognising the challenge posed by increasing stray animal populations, the Supreme Court said authorities must expand ABC centres further depending on the population density and requirements of each district.
The court also addressed the issue of stray cattle on national highways, directing the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to take immediate and time-bound action. The apex court ordered deployment of depreciated transport vehicles for handling stray cattle and asked NHAI to establish a monitoring and coordination framework to ensure effective implementation.
The ruling is expected to strengthen animal welfare mechanisms while also improving road safety and public management of stray animals across India.
