The Sikkim Anti-Rabies and Animal Health (SARAH), in collaboration with the Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services (AH&VS) Department, has launched an extensive vaccination and sterilisation drive across the Chujachen constituency. The campaign, which combined Anti-Rabies Vaccination, Deworming, Animal Birth Control (ABC), and public awareness activities, covered a wide range of areas including Chujachen, Rongli Bazar, Lingtam, Agamlok, Phadamchen, Nimachen, Quekhola, Bakhutar, Maney-Sisney, Talkharka South Regu, Thokar, and Dokchin (North Regu).
According to officials, a total of 432 dogs were vaccinated and dewormed, while 107 dogs underwent sterilisation procedures under the Animal Birth Control programme. These measures aim not only to prevent the spread of rabies but also to regulate the stray dog population, which is often a major source of human-animal conflict in both rural and urban settlements. Rabies, a life-threatening zoonotic disease transmitted mainly through dog bites, continues to be a significant public health concern in many parts of India. Sikkim, however, has been recognised as one of the leading states in implementing systematic vaccination and awareness drives. Experts note that sustained campaigns such as this have already contributed to a sharp decline in rabies cases in the state over the past few years.
Speaking about the initiative, officials from SARAH highlighted the importance of public involvement in the fight against rabies. “Vaccination and sterilisation are crucial, but community awareness and active participation are equally important. Every household must take responsibility for vaccinating their pets and preventing the spread of infection,” one official said.