MAPUSA
The government has approved a new three-year programme, the Rabies Free Goa Maintenance Scheme – Phase II, to preserve the State’s rabies-controlled status from April 1, 2026, to March 31, 2029.
The scheme will be implemented in partnership with Mission Rabies through the Worldwide Veterinary Service Goa Foundation at an estimated cost of Rs 2.96 crore over three years.
Goa has recorded a sharp decline in canine rabies since mass dog vaccination campaigns began in 2015. However, authorities said the threat persists because rabies remains prevalent in neighbouring Maharashtra and Karnataka, making continued surveillance and targeted vaccination essential.
Under the new phase, annual vaccination drives will continue in the border talukas of Pernem, Bicholim, Sattari, Dharbandora and Canacona, which are vulnerable to rabies entering from adjoining States. Around 30,000 dogs are expected to be vaccinated each year in these areas.
Vaccination campaigns will also be carried out in adjoining regions of Maharashtra and Karnataka, including Vengurla, Sawantwadi, Dodamarg, Karwar and Ankola, to create a protective buffer against the disease.
The scheme provides for ring vaccination within a 3-km radius of any confirmed rabies case in animals or humans. About 10,000 dogs will be covered annually through special vaccination and emergency response campaigns.
Surveillance measures will be strengthened through a 24x7 rabies helpline, rapid testing, laboratory confirmation and investigations of dog-bite incidents under the Integrated Bite Case Management system.
The programme will employ 22 personnel, including vaccination teams, surveillance staff, a veterinary doctor and an education officer. Public awareness campaigns on dog-bite prevention, rabies management and responsible dog population control will also be intensified.
The Directorate of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services will sign an agreement with Mission Rabies to implement the project, which will be monitored by State and district-level committees.
