Panaji, Goa: Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant on Monday flagged off the World Rabies Day Campaign 2026 and a rabies awareness rally in Panaji, aimed at strengthening public awareness and community participation in the fight against rabies.
The campaign was organised by Mission Rabies – Worldwide Veterinary Service (WVS) Goa Foundation, in collaboration with the Directorate of Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services, Government of Goa.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Sawant said Goa was declared a Rabies Controlled State in 2021, and highlighted what he described as the success of the Goa Model. According to the Chief Minister, the model is now being replicated by Mission Rabies across 14 other Indian states and 20 countries.
Sawant said the 2026 campaign would further strengthen efforts related to rabies vaccination, sterilisation, disease surveillance, responsible pet ownership and community awareness.
5 Acres Allocated for Veterinary Centre
The Chief Minister also said that the Goa Government has provided 5 acres of land to WVS Mission Rabies for establishing a world-class veterinary centre.
According to Sawant, the proposed centre will have the capacity to support the sterilisation of around 20,000 to 25,000 dogs annually.
The facility is also expected to contribute to clinical education and veterinary research, including supporting the new Veterinary College in strengthening surgical training and practical skills among future veterinary graduates.
Focus on Prevention and Responsible Pet Ownership
The campaign seeks to promote preventive measures against rabies through vaccination, sterilisation, surveillance and responsible care of animals.
The message of the campaign is:
“Educate. Vaccinate. Sterilise. Eliminate Rabies.”
The World Rabies Day campaign aims to encourage citizens to participate in rabies-control efforts and promote responsible pet ownership as part of Goa's continued efforts to prevent rabies transmission.
