Sikkim | August 2025
In a significant step toward the elimination of rabies in Sikkim, the Sikkim Anti-Rabies and Animal Health (SARAH) programme, in collaboration with the Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services (AH&VS) Department, recently conducted a large-scale rabies control drive across several villages in the Chujachen constituency.
The campaign focused on a four-fold strategy: vaccination, deworming, sterilisation, and public awareness—all aimed at preventing the spread of rabies, a deadly but preventable disease most commonly transmitted through dog bites.
As part of the initiative, a total of 432 dogs were vaccinated against rabies and dewormed to improve overall animal health. Additionally, 107 dogs underwent Animal Birth Control (ABC) procedures, a humane method of managing the stray dog population and reducing the risk of rabies transmission.
The campaign reached out to multiple areas, including Chujachen, Rongli Bazar, Lingtam, Agamlok, Phadamchen, Nimachen, Quekhola, Bakhutar, Maney-Sisney, Talkharka (South Regu), Thokar, and Dokchin (North Regu). Field teams worked diligently in coordination with local residents to ensure the safe and effective delivery of services.
Rabies continues to be a serious public health concern, but sustained efforts like this have helped significantly reduce the number of cases in Sikkim. The SARAH programme, in partnership with the state government, has been instrumental in promoting animal health and welfare through scientific interventions and community-based approaches.
Officials stressed the importance of public participation in such efforts. Educating people about responsible pet ownership, timely vaccination, and the need for sterilisation remains essential in the fight against rabies.
The Government of Sikkim remains committed to making the state rabies-free. Through continued collaboration between health departments, veterinary experts, and the community, Sikkim is on the path to becoming a model state for animal welfare and zoonotic disease prevention.
