National Guidelines on Animal-Inclusive Disaster Risk Reduction (AiDRR): Strengthening Resilience for Livestock and Communities in India
In a disaster-prone country like India, the impact of natural calamities extends far beyond human lives, significantly affecting livestock, companion animals, wildlife, and community animals. Considering the critical role animals play in rural livelihoods, food security, public health, and economic stability, integrating animal welfare into disaster management has become an urgent necessity.
In this context, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), under the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, has released the “National Guidelines on Animal-inclusive Disaster Risk Reduction (AiDRR)” in April 2026. This comprehensive document provides a scientific and structured framework to integrate animal welfare and management into all phases of disaster management—Mitigation, Preparedness, Response, and Recovery.
The guidelines are grounded in the principles of “One Health” and “One Welfare,” recognizing the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental well-being. They offer detailed strategies for livestock protection, prevention of zoonotic diseases, emergency animal rescue, veterinary response systems, temporary shelter management, and post-disaster rehabilitation.
Importantly, this document serves as a practical and actionable framework for policymakers, state and district authorities, veterinary professionals, disaster management agencies, and local communities. It aims to ensure that animal safety is effectively incorporated into disaster preparedness and response, thereby safeguarding livelihoods and strengthening community resilience.
In a country where a large population depends on livestock for survival, these guidelines mark a significant step toward building a resilient, inclusive, and compassionate disaster management system, ensuring protection for both humans and animals alike.
🔗 Official Government Source
You can access and download the official document from:
National Guidelines on Animal-inclusive Disaster Risk Reduction (AiDRR)
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