Mohan Kuthar
Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Apr 25: Stressing the need for coexistence among humans, animals and nature, MP Capt Brijesh Chowta said that balance in society is possible only when people develop the mindset of living together with all forms of life.
He was speaking after inaugurating a free rabies vaccination camp for pet animals (dogs and cats) as well as stray dogs, organised on Saturday in front of Madyar Shastara Ashwathkatte at Madyar, Kotekar, on the occasion of World Veterinary Day 2026.
The programme was jointly organised by the Karnataka Veterinary Association, Dakshina Kannada district unit, Feed Animals, Save Animals Trust Mangaluru and Astra Group, with the support of Nanda Deepa Seva Balaga, Madyar Kotekar.
MP Chowta said humans, animals and nature are all linked in the same chain. Planting trees, protecting animals and living in harmony with the environment is the natural order of the world. In earlier times, people lived more closely connected with nature, and that was a natural way of life.
He said it is necessary to rebuild that harmony in modern times. Those who feed and care for animals should also remain cautious and aware of diseases such as rabies. Timely vaccination is very important. A healthy society can be built only when humans, animals and nature live together in balance.
He also praised the efforts undertaken by animal lover Rajani Shetty in creating awareness and serving animals.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Arun Kumar Shetty N, president of Karnataka Veterinary Association, Dakshina Kannada, said World Veterinary Day is observed across the world on the fourth Saturday of April every year. The day highlights the services of veterinarians, animal health and the importance of public health.
He said safe supply of animal-based protein foods such as meat and eggs is vital for people across the world. This is directly related to food security and food safety. For food to remain safe for consumption, livestock health must be maintained.
He added that under the National Animal Disease Control Programme, vaccinations are being administered to control diseases among livestock. Since the launch of the scheme in 2019, continuous vaccination of domestic animals has helped in controlling diseases.
Dr Shetty said animal health is directly linked to public health, as many infectious diseases can spread from animals to humans. Therefore, greater attention must be given to veterinary health.
He pointed out that on an average, 2,000 dog bite cases are recorded every month, of which nearly 1,600 are reported to be caused by pet dogs. Hence, timely vaccination of pet dogs is extremely necessary.
He further said rabies can be completely eradicated from the country if every pet owner ensures regular vaccination and spreads awareness among the public.
Astra Group managing director Lanchulal, Rajani Shetty of Feed Animals and Save Animals Trust Mangaluru, Kotekar Town panchayat councillor Harish Rao Madyar, Suresh Guruji, Veterinary Association vice-president Dr Chandrashekhar, Nadaru Friends Club president Ramesh H Samanai, Sadananda Nadaru, Shobha Gatti, Anu Suvarna, Damodar Shetty, Sumith Madyar, Shobha Rani, Kotekar animal husbandry department staff members Ashalatha, Jayanthi, Rajani Kuthar and others were present.
Harish Rajkumar compered the programme, while Dr Nithin Prabhu welcomed the gathering and proposed the vote of thanks.
Rajani Shetty said a dog is not merely a pet animal, but man’s most loyal friend. Creating rabies awareness through dogs is an effective way to reach people directly. She appreciated the large number of people who brought their dogs for vaccination and congratulated councillor Harish Rao and his team for organising the commendable programme at Kotekar Madyar.
Councillor Harish Rao Madyar said bringing dogs for rabies awareness at Kotekar Madyar was not just an event, but a positive step towards promoting health, responsibility and humanity in society.