Training for NDRF staff to rescue animals in times of disaster

Currently, emergency rescue operations focus on people and property, but animals hardly figure in the equation. For the first time, the training programme by the Veterinary Emergency Response Unit (VERU), South Zone of TANUVAS and World Animal Protection (WAP), dealt with the nitty-gritties of saving lives of animals and livestock during disasters. 

Around 35 officers and personnel of the NDRF from 12 battalions in the country were trained in animal management during disasters. The cadre of the participants included the Deputy Commissioner, Assistant Commissioner, Inspector, Sub-Inspector, Assistant Sub-Inspector and Head Constable. 

The idea was to build capacity among the rescue personnel on animal management, especially during disasters. Gajender K Sharma, Country Director, WAP, said that veterinary disaster management was helpful in the economics, ethics and environmental concern of the civil society. 

Dr C Manivannan, Coordinator, VERU and Professor and Head, University Publication Division, TANUVAS, said that the week-long training of trainers (ToT) programme expounded on animal handling techniques. “During disasters, nobody pays attention to the animals. But they are important for the livelihood of people. The training programme will focus on animal handling and rescue techniques. 

During disasters, even animals are affected, and they also need to be considered, as livestock are an economic asset that needs to be protected,” he said. In 2016, for the first time, animals were included in the national disaster management plan, a move that was lauded by animal activists across the country. However, many also felt that stray animals too should be considered during rescue missions.