14.04.2026 18:41
The 62 million street dogs in India signal a growing crisis across the country in terms of both public health and safety. Millions of bite cases, thousands of rabies-related deaths each year, and attacks that particularly affect the poor reveal the scale of the problem, while the fact that the number of street animals is as large as the population of France has drawn attention.
In India, where there are approximately 62 million stray dogs, free-roaming animals have turned into a serious crisis threatening both public health and daily life. This number, almost equal to the population of France, causes millions of people, especially children, to be attacked every year.
MILLIONS OF BITES, MILLIONS OF DEATHS
According to official data, 3.7 million bite cases were recorded in the country in 2024 alone. According to the World Health Organization, approximately one-third of rabies-related deaths occur in India. While 18 to 20 thousand people lose their lives due to rabies each year in the country, 60% of the cases consist of children under the age of 16.
THE CURRENT SYSTEM IS INADEQUATE
Although authorities apply the method of catching, sterilizing, vaccinating, and releasing stray dogs, it is stated that this system is ineffective due to insufficient funding and implementation problems. The existence of only 76 sterilization centers across the country and the dogs' rapid reproduction cycle lead to the growth of the problem.
THE POOR ARE AFFECTED THE MOST
The areas with the highest density of stray dogs are poor neighborhoods where infrastructure deficiencies and garbage problems are widespread. This situation causes the lower classes, Dalits, and those forced to work on the streets to be at greater risk. Increased dog activity during nighttime also heightens the danger for these groups.
ECONOMIC LOSS OF 3.5 BILLION DOLLARS
It is stated that India experiences an annual loss of approximately 3.5 billion dollars due to stray dogs. This cost includes healthcare expenses, treatment costs, and loss of workforce, while the tourism sector is also negatively affected due to security concerns.
ATTACK AT AIRPORT CREATED CONCERN
The biting of two passengers by stray dogs at Delhi International Airport in the capital once again revealed the scale the problem has reached. While authorities stated that the dogs were brought under control, they acknowledged that the increasing cases are a serious source of concern.
THE JUDICIARY INTERVENES, DEBATE CONTINUES
The Supreme Court of India intervened in the process following the increasing attacks and rabies cases. Although the court made decisions regarding the collection of dogs and placing them in safe areas, steps back were taken in implementations after objections from animal rights advocates. While the legal process continues, the stray dog problem in the country continues to grow and be debated.