REASI: Deputy Commissioner Reasi Nidhi Malik, chaired a meeting of the District Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) today in the Video Conference Hall of the DC Office.

The meeting focused on strengthening the SPCA's functioning, reviving its structure and ensuring comprehensive animal welfare coverage across the district.

A key agenda item was reviewing the composition of the SPCA Board and discussing the induction of new members to enhance the society's operational effectiveness. The Deputy Commissioner emphasized the need for expanding SPCA's outreach beyond Katra-traditionally a focal point due to the high movement of horses and mules during the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra-to other important locations such as Reasi Town and the Shiv Khori Shrine at Ransoo.

The Deputy Commissioner also took review of the financial status of the SPCA and directed a thorough audit of existing funds to ensure optimal utilization as per the prescribed guidelines and bylaws. She stressed the importance of streamlining future expenditures under a transparent and accountable framework.

A significant proposal discussed during the meeting was the establishment of an Equine Care Centre under Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives or departmental funding.

Various potential sites for this facility were deliberated, which would provide shelter and medical treatment for working animals, particularly equines.

Further, the issue of a designated site for the disposal of deceased animals-frequently reported by the Executive Officer of the Katra Municipal Committee-was also brought up for resolution.

The DC instructed the Chief Animal Husbandry Officer (CAHO) to ensure the availability of adequate veterinary staff, medical equipment, and infrastructure in high-need areas such as Katra. Veterinary surgeons were urged to proactively communicate their requirements to facilitate timely provisioning of resources.

Municipal authorities were also directed to enhance their response capabilities by appointing trained animal handlers, acquiring animal transport vehicles and equipping rescue teams with necessary tools.

DC Nidhi Malik stated that the society is committed to protecting the rights and welfare of animals and addressing instances of cruelty. She called for the preparation of a detailed action plan aimed at eradicating animal abuse and ensuring timely intervention in distress cases.

The meeting saw participation from SDM Katra Piyush Dhotra, CEO Katra Development Authority, Tehsildar Katra, CAHO, Tehsildar Shrine Board and other SPCA committee members.