SHILLONG, JUL 20: Meghalaya government launched a pilot project on Monday to eliminate dog-mediated human rabies in Laitumkhrah under the “One Health” approach, bringing together health, animal husbandry and community stakeholders.
The initiative, led by the National Health Mission with support from the Health & Family Welfare and Animal Husbandry & Veterinary departments, and the CRE India Foundation, will begin July 22 across all localities in Laitumkhrah.
Officials said the plan focuses on mass dog vaccination, public awareness, improved disease surveillance, and responsible pet ownership to meet the global goal of zero human rabies deaths by 2030.
The state’s theme for the campaign is “One Health, One Future – Together for a Rabies-Free Meghalaya.”
Paul N. Chyne, Director (MCH & FW) and Joint MD, NHM, said the pilot will test strategies like QR-coded collars and digital tracking before scaling statewide.
David T. Sun from Animal Husbandry stressed vaccination and sterilization, while CRE India Director Harish Tiwari outlined a target of 70% dog vaccination coverage and announced a ₹1 lakh contribution.
He said the app-based monitoring system will help map and track immunized dogs. Laitumkhrah Headman Andrew Dkhar pledged community support, noting the area’s large student and patient population is affected by stray dogs.
Valerie J. Laloo, State Nodal Officer, NHM, said the pilot will provide lessons for statewide rollout.
Officials present included Laureata Dkhar and Pynkham Lyngdoh from the Health and Animal Husbandry departments.
