Bengaluru’s initiative to microchip stray dogs, previously shelved, is back on track following a directive from the Union Ministry of Animal Husbandry. The directive mandates municipal corporations across the country to implant radio frequency identification (RFID) tags during animal birth control (ABC) surgeries, a move aimed at systematically maintaining data on ABC centres and the progress of related programs across states.
This renewed push means that not only Bengaluru but also other urban local bodies in Karnataka will have to implement the microchipping initiative. The central government’s directive underscores a national effort to enhance the management and tracking of stray dog populations.
The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) has previously attempted to implement a similar microchipping project. A pilot program was launched in September 2024 in the Mathikere and Malleswaram areas, where approximately 500 stray dogs were fitted with microchips. These chips were intended to store crucial data such as vaccination history, location, and medical interventions, creating a unique digital identifier for each animal.
The pilot project aimed to address shortcomings in the existing system, which often relies on temporary color-coding for vaccinated dogs that can fade quickly, leading to potential re-vaccinations. The microchip technology was seen as a permanent solution to accurately document vaccination status and other essential details, thereby preventing overlapping processes and improving overall efficiency in managing the stray dog population.
However, the expansion of the pilot project faced several hurdles. Legal challenges were raised by animal welfare organizations, citing a lack of legal backing under the Animal Birth Control Rules, 2023, which primarily mandate sterilization and vaccination. Concerns were also raised about the logistical feasibility and ethical implications of microchipping free-roaming dogs on a large scale.
Despite these challenges, the BBMP has expressed confidence in the technology’s potential. Officials have likened the microchip to an ‘Aadhaar number’ for stray dogs, emphasizing its role as a lifelong, unique identifier. The initiative is part of a broader strategy by the BBMP to manage the city’s stray dog population, which also includes animal birth control measures, vaccination drives, and designated feeding programs.
The BBMP has been working on various fronts to manage the city’s stray dog population, which is estimated to be over 2.79 lakh. Recent efforts include a plan to build shelters for a significant number of stray dogs and to implement a feeding program for vulnerable canines. The city has also seen an increase in dog bite cases, highlighting the urgency of effective management strategies.
The renewed focus on microchipping aligns with a broader national objective to streamline animal birth control programs and maintain comprehensive data. The success of this initiative in Bengaluru could set a precedent for other cities grappling with similar challenges in managing stray animal populations and ensuring public safety.
The Chenab Times News Desk