Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: With an aim to make Goa rabies-free State, the Anil Agarwal Foundation (AAF), the social impact arm of Vedanta signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Sankhali Municipal Council in presence of Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant at Mantralaya.
This initiative will be realized through AAF’s flagship animal welfare project, The Animal Care Organization (TACO), which will establish a state-of-the-art animal welfare centre in Bicholim Taluka.
Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant informed that the Government of Goa is committed to initiatives for stray cattle, representing a significant effort on behalf of the AAF.
The Chief Minister stated that this project will receive support and assistance as needed. He highlighted the expectations from the foundation, noting that this will be a pioneering initiative for the government.
Currently, there are around six to seven projects focused on stray cattle in the State, with support extended to various NGOs involved in these initiatives ,he informed .
The Chief Minister also stated that the government is also investing in these efforts, allocating Rs 150 per stray cattle. Looking ahead, the government is also ready to collaborate with NGOs for future projects concerning stray dogs and cats, ensuring sustained support for animal welfare in Goa.
Stating that this centre will be situated on two acres of land provided by the Sankhali Municipal Council, CM said it is a significant step toward eradicating rabies and enhancing animal welfare services throughout the region.
The centre will expand to include a fully equipped veterinary hospital with an Out-patient Department (OPD), Operating Theatres (OT), and advanced diagnostic services, ensuring that animals receive the best possible medical care.
Priya Agarwal Hebbar, Chairperson of Hindustan Zinc Ltd and Non-Executive Director of Vedanta Ltd, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of community involvement:
“We are proud to partner with the Government of Goa in establishing a comprehensive animal welfare centre. This initiative exemplifies our unwavering commitment to advancing animal healthcare and fostering community-led change across India. Together, we aspire to create a sustainable model that benefits both animals and the communities that support them. Our collective vision is to make Goa a rabies-free state, and we are determined to see this project through.”
In the fiscal year 2023-24, TACO impacted over 148,200 animals through its various services and interventions across the Vedanta Group and beyond, underscoring Vedanta Group’s.
The Anil Agarwal Foundation is the umbrella entity for Vedanta’s community and social initiatives. The focus areas of the Foundation are Healthcare, Women and Child development, Animal Welfare Projects, and Sports Initiatives. Anil Agarwal Foundation aims to empower communities, transform lives, and facilitate nation building through sustainable and inclusive growth.
