The Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC) has launched a new initiative called ‘Sahajeevan’ to manage the growing stray dog population through humane relocation, vaccination, and sterilisation. The project aims to create a balance between public safety and animal welfare, following Supreme Court directives that require removing stray dogs from sensitive public areas like schools and hospitals, while ensuring their protection and ethical treatment.
Guwahati Launches ‘Sahajeevan’ Project to Manage Stray Dogs with Humane Care and Vaccination
Humane Stray Dog Management
Under the ‘Sahajeevan’ project, GMC plans to relocate stray dogs from public areas to designated shelters after vaccination and sterilisation.
Mayor Mrigen Sarania stated that the main goal is to reduce dog bite cases and promote a culture of compassionate coexistence.
Public awareness campaigns will be held in every city ward to educate residents about animal rights and encourage cooperation during vaccination drives.
Challenges in Implementation
Despite its positive intent, the GMC faces several hurdles:
- Shortage of manpower and shelter homes
- Lack of treatment facilities for stray animals
- Inadequate feeding points across the city
Since 2014, over 24,000 dogs have been sterilised in collaboration with the NGO ‘Just Be Friendly’, yet population control remains difficult due to the city’s rapid growth. The mayor emphasised that consistent effort and public participation will help build a balanced human-animal ecosystem over time.
Public Health and Policy Impact
Dog bite incidents in Assam have risen from 90,000 in 2013 to nearly 1.5 lakh in 2024, highlighting the urgent need for systematic animal vaccination and sterilisation.
The ‘Sahajeevan’ project integrates:
- Sterilisation to control population
- Vaccination to prevent rabies
- Feeding zones for humane care
- Shelter relocation for safety
Authorities hope this comprehensive model will inspire other urban regions in India to adopt similar strategies for animal welfare and public health.
Building Compassionate Urban Coexistence
At its core, ‘Sahajeevan’ promotes the idea of coexistence between humans and animals. By combining policy action, medical intervention, and public education, Guwahati aims to build a safer, cleaner, and more compassionate city. The project’s long-term success will depend on community engagement and continued government support.
Exam-Oriented Notes
- Project Name: ‘Sahajeevan’
- Launched By: Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC)
- Purpose: Humane management, vaccination, and sterilisation of stray dogs
- Mayor: Mrigen Sarania
- NGO Partner: Just Be Friendly
- Sterilised Dogs (since 2014): Over 24,000
- Dog Bite Cases in Assam: 90,000 (2013) → 1.5 lakh (2024)
- Objective: To ensure safe coexistence and prevent rabies through awareness and humane care
Question & Answer
Q1. Which municipal body launched the ‘Sahajeevan’ project for stray dog management?
(a) Mumbai Municipal Corporation
(b) Kolkata Municipal Corporation
(c) Guwahati Municipal Corporation
(d) Chennai Municipal Corporation
Answer: Guwahati Municipal Corporation
Q2. What is the primary goal of the ‘Sahajeevan’ project?
(a) Relocate street vendors
(b) Manage stray dogs humanely through vaccination and sterilisation
(c) Promote tourism in Guwahati
(d) Reduce air pollution
Answer: Manage stray dogs humanely through vaccination and sterilisation
Q3. The ‘Sahajeevan’ project follows directives from which authority?
(a) Assam High Court
(b) Supreme Court of India
(c) NITI Aayog
(d) Ministry of Environment
Answer: Supreme Court of India
Q4. How many dogs have been sterilised in Guwahati since 2014 under the Animal Birth Control drive?
(a) 10,000
(b) 15,000
(c) 24,000
(d) 35,000
Answer: 24,000
Q5. Which NGO is collaborating with GMC for the ‘Sahajeevan’ project?
(a) Blue Cross India
(b) Just Be Friendly
(c) PETA India
(d) Mission Foundation Movement
Answer: Just Be Friendly
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