Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI)

PRELIMS BITS

Context:

The Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) will host the Prani Mitra and Jeev Daya Award Ceremony at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, to honor individuals and organizations for their contributions to animal welfare.

About AWBI

What is AWBI?

• AWBI is a statutory body dedicated to promoting animal welfare and preventing cruelty to animals in India.
• It serves as an advisory body to the Central and State Governments on animal welfare laws and their enforcement.
• Headquarters: Ballabhgarh, Haryana.
• Established in: 1962, under Section 4 of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960.
• Administered by: Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, Government of India.

History & Evolution

• AWBI was founded under the guidance of Rukmini Devi Arundale, a renowned animal rights activist.
• Over the years, its role has expanded to include:
  • Awareness programs on animal rights and ethical treatment.
  • Policy advisory roles to improve legal protection for animals.
  • Financial aid for Animal Welfare Organizations (AWOs).

Powers & Functions

1. Advisory Role

• Recommends amendments to animal welfare laws.
• Advises Central & State Governments on cruelty prevention measures.

2. Animal Welfare Programs

• Monitors shelters, rescue homes, and sanctuaries.
• Provides financial aid to Animal Welfare Organizations (AWOs).
• Encourages Pinjarapoles (shelters for old and sick animals).

3. Regulatory Compliance

• Ensures adherence to the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960.
• Supervises District SPCAs (Societies for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals).
• Oversees animal treatment in slaughterhouses and transport.

4. Legal Enforcement

• Assists in prosecuting offenders involved in animal abuse.
• Coordinates with State Animal Welfare Boards (SAWBs).
• Prevents illegal animal trade and cruelty.

5. Man-Animal Conflict Resolution

• Monitors human-wildlife conflicts.
• Promotes humane solutions to protect both animals and local communities.

AWBI plays a crucial role in strengthening animal welfare policies, preventing cruelty, and promoting ethical treatment of animals in India. The upcoming Prani Mitra and Jeev Daya Award Ceremony highlights its commitment to recognizing and supporting efforts toward animal welfare.