New Delhi, Aug. 28 -- What began as a Supreme Court directive has turned into a pioneering move-Rajasthan has now become the first state in India to issue a full set of rules on how cities must deal with stray dogs, balancing public safety with animal welfare.

The Department of Local Self-Government has rolled out detailed instructions under the Animal Birth Control (ABC) Rules, 2023. All municipal corporations, councils, and municipalities have been ordered to enforce them, with compliance reports due within 30 days.

At the centre of the new approach are feeding points. Every ward and neighbourhood must now have clearly marked spots where stray dogs can access food and water. These areas will be identified in consultation with resident...