India aims to eradicate dog-mediated rabies in humans by 2030 as part of the National Action Plan for Rabies Elimination, which aligns with the global "Zero by 30" initiative. However, data from 2022-23 show ongoing issues with dog bites and rabies deaths, attributed to gaps in implementation such as governance, surveillance, and vaccination efforts. To meet the elimination goal, India needs improved systems for surveillance, mass dog vaccination, and better access to post-exposure prophylaxis.
Source: One health (Amsterdam, Netherlands), https://doi.org/10.1016/j.onehlt.2026.101520