Sri Vijaya Puram, Sept. 28 (Dr. Dinesh): World Rabies Day was observed today along with the rest of the world, with a meaningful programme organised in Sri Vijaya Puram in coordination with the Department of Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services, A & N Administration, Rotary Club of Port Blair and Friendicoes (NGO).
The programme was held under the guidance of Rtn. Dr. K. A. Naveen, Director, Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services. Past Presidents of Rotary Club of Port Blair Rtn. Dinakaran, Rtn. Rajesh Anand, Rtn. Amar Gupta and Rtn. Dr. Dinesh, Dental Surgeon (a pet lover) along with Dr. Geeta Gladson, Veterinary Officer and her team, participated in the awareness and preventive initiative.
As part of the programme, reflective collars were fitted on street dogs at locations near the Science Centre, opposite the main gate of ANIIMS at Corbyn’s Cove. The reflective collars are intended to make the animals more visible to motorists at night and help reduce the risk of road accidents.
The Rotary Club of Port Blair also donated anti-rabies vaccines to Dr. Geeta Gladson, Veterinary Officer, Dog Sterilisation Centre, Dollygunj, supporting ongoing vaccination and animal welfare activities. Reflective collars were also fitted on dogs at the centre.
The initiative reflects the “One Health” approach, recognising the close interdependence of human, animal and environmental health.
The Andaman & Nicobar Islands take pride in maintaining their rabies-free status, and continued efforts in timely vaccination, effective animal-health surveillance, responsible pet ownership and appropriate monitoring at points of entry remain vital to sustaining this achievement.
Together, we can protect animals, safeguard communities and work towards a rabies-free future.