On October 6, Anant M. Ambani, Executive Director of Reliance Industries Limited, unveiled the Champions of Care initiative on World Animal Day. This programme aims to enhance community animal welfare in India by employing practical and sustainable solutions. The initiative unites over 50 animal welfare organisations that provide care for community dogs, cats, and large animals, alongside essential veterinary and rescue services.

Champions of Care underscores the belief that every community animal merits care, protection, and dignity. This includes not only stray dogs and cats but also abandoned and working animals, such as cattle and donkeys. Many of these animals require critical veterinary care, shelter, food, and ongoing support. Furthermore, responsible population management measures, including animal birth control programmes, are necessary for community pets.

In attendance were eight members of the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI), the advisory body responsible for promoting animal welfare in the nation. The initiative has the potential to offer support to around 2 million animals each year through various services, such as rescue operations, veterinary care, and shelters.

Highlights from the Gathering at Vantara

The two-day event held at Vantara was designed to foster collaboration beyond mere formalities. On the first day, delegates experienced Vantara’s facilities, witnessing the application of compassion in animal care. They toured areas dedicated to rescues of elephants and big cats, including lions and leopards, as well as environments for herbivores like bison and zebras. This experience demonstrated how principles of nutrition, veterinary care, and lifelong support can be integrated to enhance animal wellbeing.

The second day was focused on dialogue and collaboration among participating organisations, who exchanged experiences and discussed common issues. They explored potential solutions through shared knowledge and resources, advocating for a collective response to challenges in animal care.

A significant moment during the gathering was the signing of a Letter of Understanding between Vantara and the attending animal welfare organisations. This agreement formalises their commitment to work together to improve community animal welfare and establishes a framework for collaboration and practical support.

Future Prospects of Champions of Care Initiative

Each participating organisation was presented with a Certificate of Appreciation from Anant Ambani, recognising their relentless efforts in animal welfare. The initiative aims to address various needs identified by these organisations, including improved infrastructure, ambulance services, and facilities for long-term animal care. Support for education and awareness programmes aimed at young people has also been proposed in response to the increasing occurrence of infectious diseases.

Champions of Care is envisioned as a national initiative with plans for expansion to incorporate more animal welfare organisations in the future. By fostering knowledge sharing and capacity building, the initiative hopes to create a more integrated approach to community animal welfare across India.

Ultimately, Champions of Care extends Vantara’s commitment to the belief that every life matters, aiming to support not only the animals under Vantara’s care but also the numerous animals attended to daily by welfare organisations throughout the country. Through this initiative, the goal is to strengthen community animal welfare and ensure that more animals receive the compassion and care they deserve.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share