AWBI and NALSAR collaborate to train animal welfare advocates
By Doruvu Paul Jagan Babu:Bureau Chief
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Hyderabad: The Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) signed an MoU with NALSAR University of Law, Hyderabad on Thursday, to provide specialized legal training for civil society members supporting animal welfare efforts, marking a significant step towards strengthening animal protection laws and practices.
Strategic partnership for legal training
AWBI Chairman Dr. Abhijit Mitra and NALSAR Vice Chancellor Prof. Shrikrishna Deva Rao formalized the partnership through an MoU, aiming to train Honorary Animal Welfare Representatives (HAWRs). The program will offer education on animal welfare laws, investigative techniques, and procedures.
Training Details: Sessions will accommodate 25 participants, spanning a minimum of three days.
Certification Process: NALSAR will conduct assessments, and AWBI will issue HAWR certifications.
Intellectual Property: Training materials will be owned by NALSAR, with AWBI retaining exclusive usage rights.
Advancing animal welfare ecosystem
The partnership signifies progress in building a robust legal framework for animal welfare. It seeks to empower HAWRs to address issues like animal cruelty, rescue operations, and public awareness campaigns.
AWBI’s general meeting
AWBI held its 53rd General Meeting at the National Animal Resource Facility for Biomedical Research in Hyderabad. The meeting addressed administrative matters and plans for promoting animal welfare across the country.
Animal welfare fortnight celebrations
From January 14 to 30, 2025, AWBI will host Animal Welfare Fortnight nationwide, emphasizing biodiversity and the critical role of animals in ecosystems.
Role of Honorary Animal Welfare Representatives
HAWRs are crucial civil society advocates for animal welfare, addressing cruelty, providing first aid, and collaborating with authorities to ensure humane treatment. Their responsibilities include:
Tackling issues like inhumane treatment and injuries.
Educating the public on animal welfare and transport laws.
Leading rescue operations and combating cruel animal practices.
About AWBI and PCA Act, 1960
Established under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (PCA) Act, 1960, AWBI is dedicated to promoting animal welfare and preventing cruelty. The PCA Act protects domestic and wild animals from mistreatment during transportation, experimentation, and performances, while also raising public awareness and providing training for humane animal management.