Shillong, Sept. 26: The District Joint Steering Committee for Rabies Elimination, East Khasi Hills, in collaboration with the Health and Veterinary Departments, Shillong Municipal Board, NGOs, and community leaders, observed World Rabies Day 2025 at Lumparing Sports Club Indoor Hall under the theme “ACT NOW: YOU, ME AND THE COMMUNITY.”
The programme was graced by Shri Sanbor Shullai, MLA South Shillong and Minister in-charge Animal Husbandry & Veterinary, Arts & Culture, Printing & Stationery, and Legal Metrology, as Chief Guest, and Smti P.K. Sangma, Additional Deputy Commissioner, East Khasi Hills, as Guest of Honour.
In his address, Shri Shullai urged citizens to vaccinate pets, treat dog-bite wounds promptly, and support stray dog control, stressing that rabies is 100% preventable but fatal if ignored. Smti Sangma echoed the call for urgent community participation to stop rabies transmission.
Dr. R.R. Marak, District Nodal Officer, NRCP, revealed that Meghalaya records over 19,000 dog-bite cases annually, with more than 5,000 from East Khasi Hills alone, and 15 deaths already this year — most caused by delayed or neglected treatment.
The event featured expert talks and discussions by Dr. N. Marbaniang (District Veterinary Officer), Dr. Lambert Syiemlieh, Dr. Freddy Nongdhar, Smti Bernadeth Sohtun (HUFAN), Shri Andrew Umdor (SMB), and Dr. Iada Lyngdoh (State Nodal Officer, NRCP). Highlights included a pledge-taking ceremony led by the Chief Guest, a poster competition for school students, and a special stray dog vaccination drive.
Observed globally every year on September 28, World Rabies Day commemorates Louis Pasteur and aims to promote rabies prevention, responsible pet ownership, and timely post-exposure care.
