Mann Government Stands with Every Living Being: Punjab Launches Historic Campaign to Resolve Decades-Old Stray Animal Problem
Chandigarh, November 17, 2025 : For the first time in Punjab’s history, the state government has launched a coordinated, state-level action plan to tackle the decades-old problem of stray animals. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann’s government has turned its earlier assurance—given during the debate on the amendment to the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act—into a concrete policy.
Local Government Minister Dr. Ravjot Singh informed the Assembly that for the first time, all departments and stakeholders are working together to solve this issue. The Local Government Department is leading this multi-agency effort, ensuring coordination among all related departments.
Punjab Steps Up Action to Manage Stray Animals
To support the victims of animal attacks, the government had already implemented The Punjab Compensation to Victims of Animal Attacks and Accidents Policy, 2023. This policy provides immediate financial help to families affected by stray animal attacks, ensuring they do not face financial hardship.
To manage the current stray animal population, the government has taken significant steps.Registered gaushalas across 518 shelters have provided shelter to more than 2 lakh stray animals. The Department of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj has built 77 animal sheds in 20 government pounds, and Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) have set up 10 new animal shelters as well.
They are regularly issuing instructions to ULBs to strengthen efforts for capturing and caring for the animals. They provide financial assistance to the gaushalas through the Cow Cess fund and ULB resources. This ensures no effort remains incomplete. This strong financial support shows the seriousness of the government toward this problem.
Punjab Launches 24×7 Helpline, Speeds Stray Animal Shelter Drive
At the district level, the authorities have also established a strong system. They have instructed district officers to complete the process of sending stray animals to shelters by March 31. They have launched a helpline number (9646-222-555). People can report incidents of animal attacks on this number. The helpline runs 24×7. It ensures prompt action on every complaint.
Deputy Commissioners have been directed to coordinate with local gaushalas in their areas. In district Pussal, for example, the target is to move around 150 stray animals to shelters. The Collectorate (CMO) is making budget arrangements to ensure timely payments to gaushalas.
Punjab Launches High-Priority Drive for Stray Animal Welfare
Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann is personally monitoring the campaign. He has instructed all district officials to treat it as a top-priority task. The government’s aim is to remove stray animals from the roads. They also aim to ensure their proper care and rehabilitation. This reflects a humane and compassionate approach aligned with the principles of animal welfare.
This initiative is poised to become a model for other states across India. Punjab’s coordinated and multi-departmental approach demonstrates political will.It shows that sound planning and proper budgeting can resolve even the most complex issues. This campaign not only ensures public safety but also highlights the government’s strong commitment to animal welfare.
