Government to spend Rs 1.46 cr to sustain ‘rabies controlled status’

Panaji: The government will spend an amount of `1.46 crore during next 3 years to sustain ‘Rabies Controlled Status’ of Goa.

The government has notified a scheme to sustain ‘Rabies Controlled Status’ of the state for the 3-year period from April 1, 2023 to March 31, 2026, at an estimated cost of `1,46,40,000 crore.

The scheme titled ‘Rabies Free Goa Maintenance Scheme – Phase I’ aims to provide these funds for sustained rabies control in Goa on a long-term basis and respond appropriately to any re-introduction of the virus.

The yearly cost of the scheme is `48,80,000. 

Four talukas, namely Pernem, Bicholim, Sattari and Canacona, which directly border unvaccinated dog population of neighbouring states of Maharashtra and Karnataka will continue to be extensively vaccinated, annually, both for free roaming and owner dogs.

Sanguem and Dharbandora talukas, though bordering Karnataka, are not considered for extensive vaccination as these border areas form the Western Ghats. It is estimated that 30,000 vaccinations will be covered in this category.

Monthly reports on number of dogs vaccinated, number of dogs positive or suspected for rabies, specifying the area of outbreak, stray dog population, pet dog population, human dog bite cases, human rabies deaths, latest statistics, and number of children and adults educated would also be compulsorily submitted to the departments of education, statistics and animal husbandry departments.

Vaccination, education and surveillance are the main components of this scheme.

The notifications states that the risk of canine rabies has decreased dramatically in Goa since the government initiated statewide mass dog vaccination through partnership with ‘Mission Rabies’ from 2015 onwards.