Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 30 September 2025
The Department of Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services (AH&VS), in collaboration with local civic bodies, observed World Rabies Day on 28th September 2025, under the theme ‘Act Now: You, Me, Community’, highlighting the shared responsibility of citizens, veterinarians, health workers, and authorities in eliminating rabies.
As part of the observance, a mass sterilization and vaccination campaign was carried out across Veterinary Hospitals and Veterinary Dispensaries throughout the Islands. During the drive, 54 female dogs were neutered and 120 dogs vaccinated against rabies.
The Andaman & Nicobar Islands are among the few regions in India officially considered rabies-free, with no confirmed indigenous cases of the disease in humans or animals ever reported. However, experts cautioned that rabies-free status does not eliminate the risk entirely, especially with the increasing movement of people and animals between islands and the mainland.
Community organizations and veterinary staff emphasized the need for strengthened stray dog management measures, including adequate shelter facilities, regular sterilization, and vaccination drives. Residents were urged to report animal bites promptly and cooperate with local health centres to ensure timely treatment.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. K.A. Naveen, Director of AH&VS, said, “Our Islands are proud to be rabies-free, but we must remain vigilant. Public cooperation in vaccination, stray dog control, and awareness is key to sustaining this status.”
World Rabies Day serves as a reminder that rabies is 100% preventable with timely vaccination and care. The message from the Andaman & Nicobar Islands this year is clear: collective action by individuals, communities, and institutions is essential to keep the Islands safe.
