Karnataka will launch a free anti-rabies vaccination program for 1.1 million pet animals throughout the state during October and November, as part of the Assistance to States for Control of Animal Diseases (ASCAD) initiative. Animal Husbandry Minister C Puttarangashetty announced the program on Monday, highlighting the state’s goal to eliminate dog-mediated rabies deaths by 2030.
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Puttarangashetty made the announcement at the opening of the World Rabies Day 2026 event at the AV Rama Rao Auditorium at the Indian Institute of Science. He emphasized that rabies is a deadly disease and that prevention through timely vaccination is crucial for safeguarding both animals and humans.
To support frontline workers involved in this campaign, the ABHAYRAB vaccine will be provided to help prevent rabies infection. Vinoth Priya R, secretary of the animal husbandry and fisheries department, noted that the eradication of rabies can only be achieved through a 'one health' approach, integrating human, animal, and environmental health.