DELHI, India – The Veterinary Department of the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) is gearing up to implement a comprehensive pet dog registration policy aimed at streamlining the process and ensuring uniformity across the city. As per the proposed policy, a standard registration fee of ₹500 per dog will be introduced, replacing the existing disparate fee structures that existed within the three previous municipal bodies of Delhi. This move seeks to enhance enforcement and compliance with pet dog registration regulations.
Mandatory under Section 399 of the Delhi Municipal Corporation Act, pet dog registration by owners is essential. Currently, the registration fees for pet dogs differ among the three former municipal bodies. South and East Delhi impose an annual fee of ₹500, while North Delhi levies ₹50. Following the unification of these civic bodies in May 2022, the MCD is now striving to establish a cohesive policy framework that harmonizes registration practices.
The proposed policy envisions a uniform fee structure, with the registration fee set at ₹500 per dog. Disparities previously existed due to variations in processing fees, encompassing a ₹5 dog tax and ₹45 token cost. A draft preamble for this policy has been formulated, awaiting approval from the deliberative wing.
To expedite the registration process and facilitate timely issuance of registration certificates, the MCD is exploring real-time certificate generation. This approach aims to circumvent delays stemming from obligatory approvals by zonal deputy directors or veterinary officers. As long as the requisite documents and basic information are provided, registration certificates will be instantly generated.
At present, MCD reports only around 3,000 registered dogs, indicating a need for heightened enforcement. In the previous year, the registration fees collected from pet owners amounted to ₹1,57,000. The pet dog registration certificate remains valid for a year or until the expiry of the dog’s rabies vaccination validity.
Highlighting the significance of this initiative, an MCD official emphasized that pet dog registration under Section 399 of the DMC Act is mandatory, and failure to comply may result in penalties and prosecution under IPC Section 289 (negligence concerning animals). Additionally, the registration system aids in monitoring the vaccination status of the city’s canine population. In cases of lost dogs, the registration serves as a valuable tool for identification through the associated collar and token, while also serving as proof of ownership.
