Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin launches 20-crore scheme to help animal welfare organizations

CHENNAI: Launching the ‘Vallalar Palluyir Kappagangal’ - the Rs 20 crore scheme announced by the government of Tamil Nadu in its last budget – chief minister MK Stalin released the first instalment amounting to Rs 88,05,000 to five animal welfare NGOs in an event marking Thiruvalluvar Day on Monday.


The five NGOs - India Project for Animal and Nature, Madras Animal Rescue Society (MARS), Prithvi Animal Welfare Society, Bhairava Foundation and Animal Care Trust, were provided grants by the finance ministry aiding towards the food and medical expenses of the animals in their care, which is the one of the components covered under the scheme, followed by infrastructure, ambulances, and animal birth control (ABC) surgeries.

For Sarah Iyer and her husband Gerry, a retired teacher and media professional who run MARS, this lifts a huge burden off their shoulders, as the couple has been taking care of 250 paraplegic and ageing dogs at their shelter Daaman for the last four years. “Fund crunches are perpetually faced, because the medical and food expenses for our animals is very high, given that they need extra care, regular checkups and nutritious food to lead a quality life. We have been spending from our savings to ensure this,” says Sarah. “When most paraplegic dogs would be euthanized, many of our dogs have started walking.”

Twenty-three NGOs had applied for the grant, of which 15 were inspected and five selected for the first round of cheques, says Shruti Vinodh Raj, member of Tamil Nadu Animal Welfare Board (TNAWB). “Most NGOs face the challenge in housing the animals; some do not have proper shelters built; others have a large number of animals they struggle to feed on a daily basis. We’re looking at the smaller players who need help,” says Shruti.

"This is the first time a state-wise budget like this has been allocated, and more NGOs will be covered under the scheme in the following weeks." she said.

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