India accounts for nearly one-third of all rabies deaths globally, with the stray dog population estimated to be in the tens of millions. Most human rabies cases result from dog bites, and children under 15, particularly in rural and underserved areas, are the most vulnerable. Mr. Nadda said the government, through the National Rabies Control Programme (NRCP), is strengthening surveillance systems, ensuring access to vaccines and immunoglobulins, and promoting public awareness. Experts point to the need for mass dog vaccination and sustainable population management as the most effective strategies to eliminate dog-mediated rabies. Dr Uday Kakroo, a senior veterinarian, expressing concern over current rabies control efforts, said that dog vaccination is not being carried out as seriously as it should be.