According to the 20th Livestock Census, Punjab currently has 1.4 lakh stray animals, with updated data from the 21st Census expected soon.
Chandigarh: In yet another landmark step towards fulfilling its promises, the Punjab Government under Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has announced a comprehensive, multi-departmental strategy to resolve the long-standing issue of stray animals in the state.
Cabinet Minister Dr. Ravjot Singh informed the Vidhan Sabha that the state government will bring together various departments, experts, and animal welfare organizations to formulate an action plan aimed at providing a sustainable and long-term solution.
A First for Punjab: Unified Action to Solve a Decades-Old Problem
Dr. Ravjot Singh emphasized that for the first time in Punjab’s history, a coordinated state-level approach is being adopted to address the stray animal menace. He reminded the House that CM Bhagwant Mann had already assured quick action on this matter during the debate on the Amendment Bill of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, turning his promise into concrete policy.
The Local Government Department will lead this multi-agency effort, ensuring that all departments and stakeholders work in synergy to bring relief to the people of Punjab.
Support for Victims and Infrastructure Development
Highlighting the government’s commitment, Dr. Ravjot Singh shared that the state has already implemented “The Punjab Compensation to Victims of Animal Attacks and Accidents Policy, 2023” to provide immediate financial relief to families affected by stray animal attacks.
Additionally, the government has taken significant steps to manage the current stray animal population:
- Over 2 lakh stray animals housed in 518 registered Gaushalas.
- 77 cattle sheds constructed by the Rural Development & Panchayati Raj Department across 20 government cattle pounds.
- 10 additional shelters established by Urban Local Bodies (ULBs).
- Regular directives issued to ULBs to strengthen capture-and-care efforts.
- Financial support is also being extended to gaushalas through Cow Cess funds and ULB resources, ensuring that no effort is left incomplete.
Data-Driven Approach for Effective Results
According to the 20th Livestock Census, Punjab currently has 1.4 lakh stray animals, with updated data from the 21st Census expected soon. The government’s new strategy aims to combine this data with modern management practices to bring the situation under control once and for all.
A Multi-Pronged, Sustainable Plan
Dr. Ravjot Singh confirmed that this new strategy will involve:
- Coordination between Local Government, Rural Development, and Animal Welfare departments.
- Collaboration with animal welfare organizations and experts.
- Strengthening infrastructure for shelters and veterinary support.
- Strict monitoring and funding for effective implementation.
“This government is not only acknowledging the issue but is also delivering results,” Dr. Singh said, emphasizing that this multi-pronged approach will finally provide lasting relief to the people of Punjab.
This historic initiative marks another step forward for the Punjab Government, proving once again that CM Bhagwant Mann’s administration is a government of action, not empty promises.
