Hyderabad: The Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI), a statutory body under the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with NALSAR University of Law, Hyderabad, to advance professional legal training for animal welfare advocates. The MoU was signed by Dr. Abhijit Mitra, Chairman of AWBI, and Prof. Shrikrishna Deva Rao, Vice-Chancellor of NALSAR University.
The partnership aims to equip civil society members supporting District Societies for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCAs) and State Animal Welfare Boards with specialized legal knowledge. The program will provide training for applicants aspiring to become Honorary Animal Welfare Representatives (HAWRs) under AWBI.
Key Features of the Collaboration
- Training Scope: Participants will receive education in animal welfare laws, investigative techniques, procedures, and related topics.
- Format and Duration: Training will be conducted in batches of up to 25 participants per session over a minimum of three days.
- Certification: AWBI will issue HAWR certifications based on assessments conducted by NALSAR University.
- Intellectual Property: Training materials developed by NALSAR will remain its intellectual property, with exclusive usage rights granted to AWBI.
This collaboration is seen as a landmark initiative to enhance the legal framework for animal welfare in India by empowering individuals with professional expertise.
Coinciding with the MoU signing, AWBI conducted its 53rd General Meeting at the National Animal Resource Facility for Biomedical Research (NARFBR) in Hyderabad. Discussions focused on advancing animal welfare in the country, including administrative matters.
AWBI also announced the celebration of Animal Welfare Fortnight from January 14 to 30, 2025, with nationwide activities. The fortnight will emphasize the diversity of life on Earth and the critical role animals play in ecosystems, raising awareness about the importance of animal welfare.
