Delhi's MCD Identifies Stray Dog Feeding Spots Amid Court Directives
MCD identifies 16 of 735 stray dog feeding spots following Supreme Court directives.
Photo by Heshan Weeramanthri
Key Facts
Feeding spots identified: 16 of 735
Dogs sterilized (Apr-Nov 2025): 68,408
Dogs sterilized in 2024: 1,31,137
Animal birth control centers: 20
UPSC Exam Angles
GS Paper II: Social Justice - Animal Welfare, Government Policies
GS Paper III: Environment - Biodiversity Conservation
Potential question types: Statement-based, analytical questions on animal rights and welfare
Visual Insights
Stray Dog Management in Delhi: Key Statistics (2025-2026)
Key statistics related to stray dog management in Delhi, including sterilization, feeding spots, and animal birth control centers.
- Stray Dogs Sterilized & Immunized (Apr-Nov 2025)
- 68,408-47.8%
- Identified Stray Dog Feeding Spots
- 16/735-97.8%
- Animal Birth Control Centers
- 20
- Sterilization Target per ABC Center
- 80%
Decline in sterilization compared to 2024 raises concerns about population control effectiveness.
Very few feeding spots identified compared to the total number, indicating slow progress in implementation.
Number of ABC centers remains constant, but their effectiveness is crucial for achieving sterilization targets.
Ambitious target set by Animal Birth Control Rules, 2023, but achievement remains a challenge.
More Information
Background
The issue of stray animals in India has deep historical roots, intertwined with religious beliefs, cultural practices, and urbanization. Historically, in many parts of India, animals like cows and dogs have held a sacred status, influencing how they are treated. However, rapid urbanization and changing lifestyles have led to an increase in stray animal populations, particularly dogs.
The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, was a significant milestone, aiming to prevent unnecessary suffering. The Animal Birth Control (Dogs) Rules, 2001, under this Act, further outlined guidelines for managing stray dog populations through sterilization and immunization programs. These rules marked a shift from culling to a more humane approach, reflecting evolving attitudes towards animal welfare.
The legal framework has been continuously evolving, with various court judgments and amendments shaping the current approach to stray animal management.
Latest Developments
In recent years, there has been increased scrutiny of animal birth control programs and their effectiveness. While sterilization efforts have continued, debates persist regarding the optimal strategies for managing stray animal populations. The implementation of Animal Birth Control Rules, 2023, aims to streamline and improve these programs, focusing on achieving higher sterilization rates and ensuring better monitoring.
Simultaneously, there's growing emphasis on community participation and awareness campaigns to promote responsible pet ownership and reduce the abandonment of animals. The rise of animal welfare organizations and NGOs has also played a crucial role in advocating for humane treatment and providing support for animal care initiatives. The future outlook involves leveraging technology for tracking and managing stray animal populations, along with strengthening collaboration between government bodies, NGOs, and local communities.
Practice Questions (MCQs)
1. Consider the following statements regarding the Animal Birth Control (ABC) Rules, 2023: 1. The rules mandate a minimum of 80% sterilization rate in designated areas. 2. The rules are applicable only to municipal corporations in metropolitan cities. 3. The rules provide for the establishment of State Animal Welfare Boards. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- A.1 only
- B.2 and 3 only
- C.1 and 3 only
- D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer
Answer: C
Statement 1 is correct as the ABC Rules, 2023, mandate 80% sterilization. Statement 3 is correct as the rules provide for State Animal Welfare Boards. Statement 2 is incorrect as the rules apply to all local bodies, not just metropolitan corporations.
2. Which of the following statements accurately reflects the legal position on feeding stray dogs in India, based on recent court directives?
- A.Feeding stray dogs is illegal and punishable by law.
- B.Feeding stray dogs is legal, but feeders may be held responsible for dog bite incidents.
- C.Feeding stray dogs is a fundamental right and cannot be restricted.
- D.Feeding stray dogs is permitted only in designated animal shelters.
Show Answer
Answer: B
Recent court directives suggest that while feeding stray dogs is not illegal, individuals who feed them may be held responsible for any incidents of dog bites or injuries caused by the dogs they feed.
3. The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act was enacted in which year?
- A.1950
- B.1960
- C.1972
- D.1986
Show Answer
Answer: B
The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act was enacted in 1960 to prevent the infliction of unnecessary pain or suffering on animals.
4. Which of the following is NOT a function of the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI)?
- A.Advising the government on animal welfare laws.
- B.Providing grants to animal shelters.
- C.Directly managing animal birth control programs in cities.
- D.Promoting animal welfare education.
Show Answer
Answer: C
The AWBI primarily advises the government, provides grants, and promotes education. Direct management of ABC programs is usually handled by local municipal corporations and NGOs.
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