MAW-003 Animal Welfare Laws, Policies and Organizations
Block 4 ANIMAL WELFARE STATUTORY BODIES AND ORGANIZATIONS
UNIT 11 Animal Welfare Organizations
UNIT 12 CPCSEA Animal Welfare Statutory Bodies and Organizations BLOCK 4 ANIMAL WELFARE STATUTORY BODIES AND ORGANIZATIONS
In India, the major national level animal welfare statutory bodies are working under Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying (MoFAHD) and Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC). The state level statutory bodies are working under corresponding ministries at state level. At district level, the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) is the recognised body. The animal welfare non-governmental organisations (NGOs), societies and charitable trusts are generally non-profit bodies funded by donations, grants and sponsorships. The Committee for the Purpose of Control and Supervision of Experiments on Animals (CPCSEA) is the national regulatory body constituted under the PCA Act, 1960.
Unit 11, Animal Welfare Organizations focuses on the major national and Global level animal welfare organizations / not-for-profit organizations.
Unit 12, CPCSEA describes the meaning, guidelines, objectives and functions of CPCSEA and IAEC, justify the need for the CPCSEA and Institutional Animals Ethics Committee (IAEC), the ethical principles adopted for use of animals in scientific experiments and the protocols for the use of animals in research and other related purposes.
172 Animal Welfare UNIT 11 ANIMAL WELFARE Organizations ORGANIZATIONS
Structure 11.1 Learning Outcomes 11.2 Introduction 11.2.1 Statutory Bodies 11.3 Animal Welfare Board of India 11.4 Committee for the Purpose of Control and Supervision of Experiments on Animals 11.5 Rashtriya Kamdhenu Aayog 11.6 National Board for Wild Life 11.7 National Tiger Conservation Authority 11.8 Central Zoo Authority 11.9 Project Elephant 11.10 Wildlife Crime Control Bureau 11.11 Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals 11.12 National Institute of Animal Welfare 11.13 Non-Governmental Animal Welfare Organizations in India 11.14 Global Animal Welfare Organizations 11.15 Let Us Sum Up 11.16 Keywords 11.17 Bibliography and Further Reading 11.18 Self Assessment Exercises 11.19 Answers/ Hints to Check Your Progress 11.1 LEARNING OUTCOMES a) Knowledge and Understanding: After studying this Unit, you will be able to: Identify the important national level animal welfare statutory bodies. b) Practical and Professional Skills: After studying this Unit, you will be able to: Discuss the objectives and functions of major national and global animal welfare organizations / not-for-profit organizations. 11.2 INTRODUCTION
Dear Learner, In the previous units, we discussed about major animal welfare laws, biodiversity conventions and international treaties on conservation of animals and legal procedures in animal welfare. Several national / international organizations have played a crucial role in the preparation and enactment of laws / conventions / 173 Animal Welfare Statutory treaties. These interventions helped in changing the culture and understanding Bodies and Organizations of key stakeholders that animals deserve humane treatment. In this unit, you will be introduced to the major national and global animal welfare statutory bodies / organizations / not-for profit NGOs. 11.2.1 Statutory Bodies
In India, the major National level animal welfare statutory bodies are working under two ministries: 1) Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying (MoFAHD) a) Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) b) Committee for the Purpose of Control and Supervision of Experiments on Animals (CPCSEA) c) Rashtriya Kamdhenu Aayog (RKA) 2) Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) a) National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) b) National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) c) Central Zoo Authority (CZA) d) Project Elephant (PE) e) Wildlife Crime Control Bureau At state level, we have: a) State Animal Welfare Board (SAWB) b) State Gau Sewa Aayog c) State Wildlife Advisory Board At district level we have: a) Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA). 11.3 ANIMAL WELFARE BOARD OF INDIA
In Unit 2, you were introduced to the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI), its constitution and functions. The AWBI is a statutory advisory body on Animal Welfare Laws and promotes animal welfare in the country. It was established in 1962 under Section 4 of the PCA Act, 1960. The mandate of AWBI is to prevent the infliction of unnecessary pain or suffering on animals, in terms of the provision of the PCA Act, 1960. The Board has been the face of the animal welfare movement in the country for the last six decades.
Recognition: The AWBI grants recognition to the newly started Animal Welfare Organisations (AWOs). For recognition, the AWO has to submit the registration certificate under the Societies Registration Act or Trust Act, audited statement of accounts and annual reports for the last three years, two copies of memorandum of association/bye-laws and animal welfare activities report. The AWO has to agree to nominate a representative of the AWBI on its Managing/Executive Committee and also for regular inspection of its functioning. The new organizations are inspected by Board Members/authorized Inspection Agencies 174 and if the inspection report is satisfactory, then they are considered for grant of Animal Welfare recognition. Organizations
Financial Assistance: One of the most important functions of the Board is to provide financial assistance to the recognised AWOs. The applications in the prescribed format received from the AWOs are scrutinized and eligible applications are placed before the Board for sanction of grant. Financial assistance is released in two instalments after obtaining audited statement of accounts, utilisation certificate for the earlier grants and satisfactory inspection reports. The Board provides financial assistance to AWOs under various schemes viz. Regular grant Cattle rescue grant Provision of shelter house for looking after the animals Animal birth control (ABC) programme Provision of ambulance for the animals in distress, and Natural calamity grant (For more details, please visit the website of AWBI http://www.awbi.in/index.html) 11.4 COMMITTEE FOR THE PURPOSE OF CONTROL AND SUPERVISION OF EXPERIMENTS ON ANIMALS
The CPCSEA is a statutory Committee, which is established under the PCA Act, 1960. All establishments engaged in research and education involving animals, are required to comply with rules and norms set by CPCSEA. Apart from them about 1748 supplier establishments including government organisations from where researchers can get experimental animals are also registered with CPCSEA. The Institutional Animal Ethics Committee (IAEC) is a body comprising of a group of persons recognized and registered by the CPCSEA in an establishment which is constituted and operated in accordance with procedures specified for the purpose by the Committee. (For more details on CPCSEA and IAEC, please read Unit 12 on CPCSEA)
11.5 RASHTRIYA KAMDHENU AAYOG
The Government of India has constituted the “Rashtriya Kamdhenu Aayog (RKA)” in 2019 to organize animal husbandry on modern and scientific lines. The RKA will function as an integral part of Rashtriya Gokul Mission.
Objectives of RKA 1) The RKA has been constituted for the conservation, protection and development of cows and their progeny; for proper implementation of laws with respect to prohibition of slaughter and / or cruelty to cows and for giving direction to the cattle development programmes.
2) The RKA will be a high powered permanent body to formulate policy and to provide direction to the implementation of schemes related to cattle so as to give more emphasis on livelihood generation of small and marginal farmers. 175 Animal Welfare Statutory 3) The RKA will provide enabling environment, develop a policy framework Bodies and Organizations and shape guidelines aimed at achieving following:
Sustainable development and up-gradation of genetic resources of cows in India.
Conservation and development of indigenous breeds of cows and improved management of cows of the country.
Enhanced production and productivity throughout country, leading to higher farm income and better quality of life for the dairy farmers.
Protection and promotion of the interest of dairy cooperatives, livestock development agencies, farmer producer companies and dairy industries in the country.
Effective implementation of laws for welfare of the cows and its progenies in the country and proper working of Gaushals, Gosadans and Pinjrapoles and other organizations/institutes for protection and development of cows and their progenies.
Functions of RKA
1) To advise and guide the Central Government and State Governments on policy matters concerning conservation, protection, development and welfare of cows and their progeny.
2) To help the Central Government to develop appropriate schemes/ programmes for sustainable development of cows in the country and to suggest measures for optimum economic utilization of cow wealth.
3) To review existing laws, policies and programmes (Centre and States) which relate to conservation, protection and development of cows and to suggest measures for their effective implementation and to work for welfare of the cow and its progeny in the country.
4) Promote schemes to encourage use of organic manure and recommend suitable measures including incentive schemes for use of dung or urine of cow in organic manure by farmers to minimize the use of chemical fertilizers.
5) To effect coordination and integration among various agencies having a stake in development of indigenous cow breeds.
6) To make provisions for solutions to the problems related to abandoned cows in the country by providing technical inputs to Gaushals, Gosadans and Pinjarapoles.
7) In the area affected by famine, drought or other natural calamities guide in setting up cattle camps for the aforesaid purposes in the affected area and to take steps to prevent migration or smuggling of cow from such affected area.
8) Develop pastures or grazing lands and to associate with institutions or other bodies whether private or public, for the purpose of developing pastures and Gauchars. 176 9) To create awareness about the significance of indigenous breeds of cow, its Animal Welfare milk and allied dairy products and use of draft power. Organizations
10) Research and development work in collaboration with any Veterinary, Animal Sciences or Agriculture University or departments or organizations of the Central /State Government engaged in the task of research in the field of breeding and rearing of cow, organic manure, bio-gas etc. as also to collaborate with such of the research projects of Indian system of medicine conducted by various public or private organizations for conducting research on the biogenic products of the cow for medicinal purposes.
11) To ensure transmission and application of improved technology and management practices at the farmers’ doorstep and the entrepreneurs.
12) To create an enabling environment to attract investment for improving infrastructure supporting, milk production, processing, value addition and marketing in the sector
13) To analyze requirement of human resources in the sector and suggest measures to enhance availability of skilled manpower.
14) Any other function that supports development of cows, their progeny and breeds.
11.6 NATIONAL BOARD FOR WILD LIFE
The NBWL is the apex statutory body constituted under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 in India for all wildlife-related matters. It replaced the Indian Board for Wildlife, which was formed in 1952 as an advisory board. The NBWL is primarily responsible for: The promotion of wildlife conservation, and The development of wildlife and forests. It approves projects (including government projects) in and around the protected areas (national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, etc.). It is an advisory board and advises the central government on policy matters concerned with wildlife conservation in the country. The NBWL comprises 47 members counting the chairperson. The Prime Minister of the country is the ex-officio chairperson of the NBWL. The Minister of Environment, Forests and Climate Change is the Vice-Chairperson of the Board. As per the WLPA, every time a new government is formed, a new NBWL has to be constituted with the Prime Minister as the chairperson. The NBWL has a Standing Committee and Minister, MoEFCC chairs the Standing Committee. The Director, Wildlife Preservation (Addl. DGF (WL) is the Member Secretary of both NBWL and its Standing Committee.
(The functions of the NBWL are discussed in Unit 3)
11.7 NATIONAL TIGER CONSERVATION AUTHORITY
The NTCA is a statutory body under the MoEFCC constituted under enabling provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, as amended in 2006, for 177 Animal Welfare Statutory strengthening tiger conservation, as per powers and functions assigned to it under Bodies and Organizations the Act. The NTCA has been fulfilling its mandate through advisories/normative guidelines, based on appraisal of tiger status, ongoing conservation initiatives and recommendations of specially constituted committees.
‘Project Tiger’ is a centrally sponsored scheme providing funding support to tiger range States, for in-situ conservation of tigers in designated tiger reserves, and has put the endangered tiger on an assured path of recovery by saving it from extinction, as revealed by the recent findings of the All India Tiger Estimation using the refined methodology.
Powers and Functions of the NTCA Powers and functions of the NTCA as prescribed under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, as amended in 2006 are as under:-
1) To approve the tiger conservation plan prepared by the State Government;
2) Evaluate and assess various aspects of sustainable ecology and disallow any ecologically unsustainable land use such as, mining, industry and other projects within the tiger reserves;
3) Lay down normative standards for tourism activities and guidelines for project tiger from time to time for tiger conservation in the buffer and core area of tiger reserves and ensure their due compliance;
4) Provide measures for addressing conflicts of men and wild animal and to emphasize on co-existence in forest areas outside the National Parks, sanctuaries or tiger reserve, in the working plan code;
5) Provide information on protection measures including future conservation plan, estimation of population of tiger and its natural prey species, status of habitats, disease surveillance, mortality survey, patrolling, reports on untoward happenings and such other management aspects as it may deem fit including future plan conservation;
6) Approve, co-ordinate research and monitoring on tiger, co-predators, prey habitat, related ecological and socio-economic parameters and their evaluation;
7) Ensure that the tiger reserves and areas linking one protected area or tiger reserve with another protected area or tiger reserve are not diverted for ecologically unsustainable uses, except in public interest and with the approval of the NBWL and on the advice of the NTCA;
8) Facilitate and support the tiger reserve management in the State for biodiversity conservation initiatives through eco-development and people’s participation as per approved management plans and to support similar initiatives in adjoining areas consistent with the Central and State laws;
9) Ensure critical support including scientific, information technology and legal support for better implementation of the tiger conservation plan;
10) Facilitate ongoing capacity building programme for skill development of officers and staff of tiger reserves, and 178 11) Perform such other functions as may be necessary to carry out the purposes Animal Welfare of this Act with regard to conservation of tigers and their habitat. Organizations
11.8 CENTRAL ZOO AUTHORITY (CZA)
The Indian Board for Wildlife re-constituted its Zoo Wing as ‘the Expert Group on Zoos’ in 1972 to make detailed study for setting up and maintenance of zoos in the country. The Expert Group’s report which was accepted by the Board recommended setting up of a central agency (Zoo Grants Commission). To give effect to this recommendation, the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 was amended in 1991 and Chapter IVA contain Section 38 A to 38 J was added to the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 for establishment of the Central Zoo Authority (CZA) in India. Accordingly, the CZA was established as a statutory body under the MoEFCC in 1992.
The CZA consists of a Chairman, ten members and a Member Secretary. The main objective of CZA is to complement and strengthen the national effort in conservation of the rich biodiversity of the country, particularly the fauna as per the National Zoo Policy, 1998. Apart from the primary function of grant of recognition, the Central Zoo Authority also regulates the exchange of animals of endangered category listed under Schedule I and II of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 among zoos. Exchange of animals between Indian and foreign zoos is also approved by the Authority before the requisite clearances under EXIM Policy and the CITES permits are issued by the competent authority.
CZA’s Vision The zoo will have healthy animals in eco-system based naturalistic enclosure, be supportive to in-situ conservation with competent and content staff, good educational and interpretative facilities, have the support of people and be self- sufficient.
CZA’s Mission To provide better upkeep and veterinary care to the wild animals housed in zoos in India to ensure their conservation through best practices of management and bringing education and awareness among the people.
11.9 PROJECT ELEPHANT
Project Elephant (PE), is a centrally sponsored scheme, and was launched in February 1992 for the protection of elephants, their habitats and corridors. It also seeks to address the issues of human-wildlife conflict and welfare of domesticated elephants. The MoEFCC provides the financial and technical support to major elephant range states in the country through PE. Elephant census, is conducted once in 5 years under the support of PE.
Elephant Counting Methods Employed in Census
The direct counting method is based on sightings of elephants.
The indirect counting method uses the elephant ‘dung decay’ formula, in which the analysis of dung is used to estimate the population. 179 Animal Welfare Statutory The government of India in the year 2010 declared elephant as the national Bodies and Organizations heritage animal of the country on the recommendations of the standing committee of the NBWL. This was done to make sure that sufficient protection to elephants was provided before their numbers fall to panic levels like in the case of tigers. A proposed National Elephant Conservation Authority (NECA) on the lines with NTCA has been proposed to be constituted by amending the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. Project Elephant Objectives To ensure the welfare of domesticated elephants. Protection of elephants, their habitats and elephant corridors. Mitigation and prevention of human-elephant conflict. Aims of Project Elephant Develop and promote scientific and planned management strategies for elephant conservation. Prevent illegal trade of ivory and ensure elephant protection from hunters and poachers. Develop strategies to prevent unnatural causes of elephants’ death in India. Ensure ecological restoration of the natural elephant habitats and their migratory routes. To mitigate and prevent the increasing conflict in elephant habitats between humans and elephants. Reduce and remove domestic livestock grazing, the pressure of humans and their activities in important elephant habitats. Promote scientific research on issues related to elephant conservation and educating the public on these issues. To facilitate veterinary care for proper breeding and health care of domesticated elephants and to facilitate eco-development for the elephants. 11.10 WILDLIFE CRIME CONTROL BUREAU
Wildlife Crime Control Bureau is a statutory multi-disciplinary body established under the MoEFCC, to combat organized wildlife crime in the country. The Bureau has it’s headquarter in New Delhi and five regional, three sub-regional offices and five border units.
Under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, the Bureau is mandated to:
1) Collect and collate intelligence related to organized wildlife crime activities and to disseminate the same to State and other enforcement agencies for immediate action so as to apprehend the criminals;
2) Establish a centralized wildlife crime data bank; co-ordinate actions by various agencies in connection with the enforcement of the provisions of the Act;
3) Assist foreign authorities and international organization concerned to facilitate co-ordination and universal action for wildlife crime control; 180 4) Capacity building of the wildlife crime enforcement agencies for scientific Animal Welfare and professional investigation into wildlife crimes and assist State Organizations Governments to ensure success in prosecutions related to wildlife crimes; and
5) Advise the Government of India on issues relating to wildlife crimes having national and international ramifications, relevant policy and laws.
The Bureau also assists and advises the customs authorities in inspection of the consignments of flora and fauna as per the provisions of WildLife Protection Act, CITES and EXIM Policy governing such an item.
11.11 SOCIETY FOR THE PREVENTION OF CRUELTY TO ANIMALS (SPCA)
SPCA is an organization run by voluntary members that aims to help animals in distress in every way possible. The SPCA is a body formed by voluntary members with District Magistrate as the chairperson. The SPCA aim to advance the welfare of all animals by: 1) Preventing cruelty to animals 2) Alleviating suffering of animals 3) Promoting welfare policies through education and advocacy The SPCA s relies almost entirely on the generosity of people to carry out their work. The majority of SPCA’s resources come from public donations, bequests and fundraising initiatives.
The SPCA’s Mission 1) Investigate and deal with complaints of cruelty and neglect. 2) Uphold the laws relating to the treatment of animals and take prosecutions where necessary. 3) Give sanctuary to animals in distress. 4) Rehome suitable animals where possible. 5) Provide medical aid to animals in need. 6) Assist with public education. 7) Promote responsible pet ownership. 11.12 NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF ANIMAL WELFARE
The National Institute of Animal Welfare (NIAW) located near Faridabad is a division of the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying (Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying). The NIAW has been conceptualized as an apex body in the field of animal welfare and its broad mandate covers the need to improve animal welfare through research, education and public outreach. Its objective is to create an enabling environment for fulfilment of the statutory requirements as laid down in the PCA Act, 1960. It 181 Animal Welfare Statutory provides training and education on various subjects related to animal welfare Bodies and Organizations including animal management, behaviour and ethics. Apart from the above, we have at state level: a) State Animal Welfare Boards (SAWB) b) State Gau Sewa Aayogs c) State Wildlife Advisory Boards Before we proceed, please complete activity 1. Activity 1 (Visit): Visit a nearby SPCA or any animal welfare organization of your choice. Find out (a) Common animal welfare activities undertaken and (b) General constraints faced by them. Write the outcome of the discussion.
a) Common animal welfare activities undertaken: ......
b) General constraints faced: ...... Check Your Progress 1 Note: a) Use the spaces given below for your answers. b) Check your answer with those given at the end of the unit. 1) Name the two ministries under which animal welfare statutory bodies are working...... 182 2) Give two examples for the statutory bodies under: Animal Welfare Organizations a) Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying......
b) Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change......
3) Name the animal welfare statutory bodies at state level......
4) Name the financial assistance schemes of AWBI to animal welfare organizations......
5) What are the primary responsibilities of the NBWL? ...... 183 Animal Welfare Statutory 6) Write the objectives of Project Elephant. Bodies and Organizations ......
11.13 NON-GOVERNMENTAL ANIMAL WELFARE ORGANIZATIONS IN INDIA
Having learnt about the statutory government animal welfare bodies or organizations, it is also essential to know about the NGOs involved in animal welfare. Different animal welfare NGOs, humane societies, charitable trusts, SPCAs and some kind-hearted individuals are relentlessly working to improve the welfare of animals in India. They focus on different aspects of animal welfare viz., vegetarianism, creating public awareness for being kind to the animals and establishment of rescue homes, animal shelters, hospitals, mobile dispensaries, sterilization of stray animals, offering pets for adoption and keeping ambulance vans for transporting ill and injured animals, sanctuaries, pinjarpoles, and gaushalas, where animals and birds in distress stay under protection. Despite different fields of activities of different animal welfare bodies and humane societies, the basic objective of their efforts is the same i.e. to prevent unnecessary pain and suffering to the animals and to promote their welfare.
The animal welfare organisations, societies and charitable trusts are generally non-profit bodies funded by donations, grants and sponsorships. Any responsible citizen who has a soft corner for animals, birds and wildlife, and is concerned about their welfare, can support the cause of these organizations by acquiring their membership, making donations or supporting them in some other way.
Following are some of the major animal welfare organizations / NGOs in India.
1) All Creatures Great and Small (ACGS): The ACGS believes that animals have a right to a non-speciesist, cruelty-free life. Its mission is to create a gentle, nurturing, loving and compassionate sanctuary for old, sick, abandoned and lonely animals. With an aim to create a happy forever home for each permanent resident till the end of their lives whether at the sanctuary or through our adoption programme.
2) Animal Aid Unlimited: Rescue street animals, provide medical care and sanctuary, and help turn community compassion into action.
3) Animal Equality: Animal Equality’s vision is a world in which all animals are respected and protected. It is working with society, governments, and companies to end cruelty to farmed animals through undercover investigations, corporate campaigns, political outreach, and the development of large-scale education programs.
4) Blue Cross of India (BCI): Based in Chennai, it is involved in animal 184 rescue, runs a hospital and rehabilitation centre for injured and unwell stray animals such as dogs, cats, cattle and birds among others. It also provides Animal Welfare 24x7 ambulance service and shelter. Organizations
5) Buddha Society for Animal Welfare (BSAW) Trust: Established to provide veterinary medical service to those animals that are less privileged than others and are deprived of minimum essential veterinary medical aid. Every year trust also imparts training and teaching to those who are passionate to provide veterinary care to these less intellectual creatures in remotest corner of the nations.
6) Compassion Unlimited Plus Action (CUPA): It runs five independent shelters across Bangalore. Each facility addresses a critical aspect of animal welfare – animal birth control, trauma & rescue, adoption & foster, geriatric care, large animal rehabilitation, a fully-equipped pet care clinic and further activities such as pet cruelty inspections, advocacy for animal rights, awareness sessions with schools, colleges and corporations and so on. To fill the gaping need for distinct rescue and rehabilitation for urban and indigenous wildlife, the trustees of CUPA setup its sister organisation, the Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre (WRRC). It was set up to provide relief to wild animals, birds and reptiles; including medical treatment and housing; as well as to handle cases of cruelty involving these animals. WRRC is also involved in the prevention of cruelty to animals, humane education, campaigns and legal battles, research and surveys on captive elephants.
7) Federation of Indian Animal Protection Organization (FIAPO): The FIAPO acts as the collective voice of the animal rights movement in India.
8) Group of Animal Lovers (GOAL) Foundation: Aims to protect, treat, help the animals and birds in the best possible way, conserving wildlife by providing a starting an on-call rescue for injured, abandoned and sick mammals, birds and reptiles.
9) Help Animals India: Dedicated to improving the lives and welfare of animals in India. It also develops close relationships with India’s animal welfare NGOs (non-governmental organizations).
10) Help In Suffering (HIS), India: Provides free, quality, emergency medical and surgical care for domesticated and street animals, who are ill or victims of traumatic injuries, who are abused, starved and/or abandoned by their owners.
11) Mercy For Animals: Its mission is to construct a compassionate food system by reducing suffering and ending the exploitation of animals for food. Mercy For Animals believes that a world is possible free of cruelty, a world in which we nurture our bodies, minds, and spirits with wholesome, healthy food that is kind to animals and sustainable for our planet. It works through undercover operations, legal advocacy, corporate engagement, organizing and public engagement.
12) People for Animals (PFA): Largest animal welfare organization in India having a nationwide network of 26 hospitals, 165 units, 60 mobile units, and 2.5 lakh members. They rescue and rehabilitate sick and needy animals; set up and run shelters, ambulance services, sterilization programs, treatment 185 Animal Welfare Statutory camps and disaster rescue missions for animals; conduct education Bodies and Organizations programmes in schools; fight cases in court, and; lobby on animal issues in parliament. PFA aims to set-up an animal welfare center in each of the nation’s 600 districts.
13) People for Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) - India: Focuses primarily on the areas in which the greatest numbers of animals suffer the most: in laboratories, in the food industry, in the leather trade, and in the entertainment business.
14) Sanjay Gandhi Animal Care Centre (SGACC): India’s oldest and Asia’s largest all-animal shelter. Its mission is to provide sick, wounded, and abandoned animals food, shelter, medication, kindness, safety, and care, for as long as they need it.
15) Stray Relief and Animal Welfare (STRAW) India: Promotes empathy and compassion for all living beings and care for the environment by educating young people through following humane education programs and workshops.
16) The Blue Cross of Hyderabad: Established with a vision to empower people to spread kindness and mitigate animal suffering exponentially, The Blue Cross of Hyderabad provides training for veterinarians, pet owners, animal welfare groups and students; facilitate adoption for healthy pups and kittens; provide basic checkups, vaccinations and emergency care treatment for sick and injured animals via community sponsored clinic and network with Government departments, animal welfare groups and citizen groups to prevent cruelty to animals, resolving animal related issues in a humane manner.
17) Vegan Outreach: Vegan Outreach is working to end violence towards animals. Their community outreach involves signing people up for guided vegan challenges, distributing printed informational booklets, showing virtual reality videos, and organizing vegan chef challenges.
18) Welfare of Animals in Goa (WAG): WAG’s emphasis is on adoptions and sterilizations and rescuing stray / injured cattle. The WAG has a cattle sanctuary and a fully functioning veterinary rescue clinic.
19) Welfare of Stray Dogs: It is a Mumbai-based organization working to eradicate rabies and control the street-dog population in a humane, scientific way. Since 1989, they have been carrying out a mass sterilisation programme for street dogs, following the recommendations of the WHO on rabies eradication and dog population control. They also conduct an on-site first aid and vaccination programme, education and awareness programme and put up abandoned pets and pariahs for adoption.
20) Wildlife SOS–India: They work towards protecting Indian wildlife, conserving habitat, studying biodiversity, conducting research and creating alternative and sustainable livelihoods for erstwhile communities that depend on wildlife for sustenance.
Please note that, apart from the above, there are many more NGOs working to 186 ameliorate the living conditions of the creatures in distress. Animal Welfare 11.14 GLOBAL ANIMAL WELFARE Organizations ORGANIZATIONS
1) The World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE): The need to fight animal diseases at global level led to the creation of the Office International des Epizooties (OIE) through the International Agreement signed in 1924. In 2003, the Office became the World Organisation for Animal Health but kept its historical acronym OIE. The OIE is the inter-governmental organisation with a total of 182 member countries. The OIE, at the request of its member countries, is the international organisation responsible for setting animal welfare standards. In this line, the OIE Global Animal Welfare Strategy was developed and adopted in 2017 by all member countries. The objective of this strategy is achieving “A world where the welfare of animals is respected, promoted and advanced, in ways that complement the pursuit of animal health, human well-being, socio-economic development and environmental sustainability”. The strategy focuses on the development of international standards on animal welfare, in consultation with member countries and key international stakeholders, developing the capacity of veterinary services, improving communication with governments and raising awareness around the issue, and, finally, supporting member countries in the implementation of these standards.
2) World Animal Protection: World Animal Protection, formerly The World Society for the Protection of Animals is an international non-profit animal welfare organization that has been in operation for over 30 years. The charity describes its vision as ‘A world where animal welfare matters and animal cruelty has ended’. World Animal Protection is a global organisation with 14 offices all over the world with headquarters in London, United Kingdom. The World Animal Protection has developed the ‘Animal Protection Index (API)’ and ranked the countries according to their animal welfare legislation and policy with 10 indicators.
(Please refer to Units 20-21 in MAW-004 for more details on API and where India stands in ranking as per API)
3) Humane Society International (HSI): HSI is one of the largest animal protection organisations in the world with its headquarters in Washington D.C, USA. The HSI works around the globe to promote the human-animal bond, rescue and protect dogs and cats, improve farm animal welfare, protect wildlife, promote animal-free testing and research, respond to natural disasters and confront cruelty to animals in all of its forms. Humane Society International India is part of HSI.
4) Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA): The RSPCA is a charity operating in England and Wales that promotes animal welfare. The RSPCA is funded primarily by voluntary donations. Its patron is Queen Elizabeth II. Founded in 1824, it is the oldest and largest animal welfare organisation in the world and is one of the largest charities in the UK. The organisation also does international animal welfare outreach work across Europe, Africa and Asia.
187 Animal Welfare Statutory 5) Eurogroup for Animals: Eurogroup for Animals is an animal protection Bodies and Organizations lobby group based in Brussels, Belgium that seeks to improve animal welfare standards in the European Union. They do this by achieving better legislation, standards, enforcement and societal attitudes, through a united community of animal protection organisations and via lawful means. The association represents animal protection organisations in 26 of the 27 EU Member States and several other countries. 6) International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW): The IFAW is one of the largest animal welfare and conservation charities in the world. The organization works to rescue individual animals, safeguard populations, preserve habitat, and advocate for greater protections. It’s with headquarters is located at Yarmouth Port, Massachusetts, USA and working across 40 countries around the world. 7) Compassion in World Farming: Compassion in World Farming is a campaigning and lobbying animal welfare organisation. It campaigns against the live export of animals, certain methods of livestock slaughter, and all systems of factory farming. It was founded in 1967 in England by Peter Roberts, a British farmer who became horrified by the development of intensive factory farming. Over 50 years ago he decided to make a difference and take a stand against this farming system. In his lifetime, Peter Roberts saw the demise of veal crates and gestation crates in the UK, and in Europe achieved recognition that animals are sentient beings and secured a ban on the barren battery cage and gestation crates for sows (except for the period up to four weeks into pregnancy). Compassion in World Farming is dedicated to reforming a broken food and farming system and introducing a more humane, fair, and sustainable one. 8) People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA): It is an American animal rights organization based in Virginia, USA. PETA opposes speciesism, a human-supremacist worldview, and focuses its attention on the four areas in which the largest numbers of animals suffer the most intensely for the longest periods of time: in laboratories, in the food industry, in the clothing trade, and in the entertainment industry. PETA also work on a variety of other issues, including the cruel killing of rodents, birds, and other animals who are often considered “pests” as well as cruelty to domesticated animals. PETA works through public education, cruelty investigations, research, animal rescue, legislation, special events, celebrity involvement, and protest campaigns. Please note that, apart from the above, there are many more global organizations working on animal welfare and protection.
Before we proceed, please complete activity 2.
Activity 2: Select four global animal welfare not-for-profit organizations of your choice. Visit their websites and study their activities. Compare them and write your observations on the following:
Selected Slogan / Global Reach Mission Thrust Areas of Organization Tagline Work
1) 188 Animal Welfare 2) Organizations
3)
4)
Check Your Progress 2 Note: a) Use the spaces given below for your answers. b) Check your answer with those given at the end of the unit. 1) What type of common activities are undertaken by the animal welfare not- for-profit organizations? ......
2) Give four examples each for national and global animal welfare NGOs......
11.15 LET US SUM UP
In this Unit, you were introduced to the major national and global animal welfare statutory bodies /organizations and important national and global not-for-profit organizations.
In India, the major national level animal welfare statutory bodies are working under two ministries: Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying & Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
The state level organizations include State Animal Welfare Boards (SAWBs), State Gau Sewa Aayogs and State Wildlife Advisory Boards.
At district level we have Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA). 189 Animal Welfare Statutory Bodies and Organizations 11.16 KEYWORDS
Animal Protection Index (API): It is an interactive index with ranking of 50 countries around the globe according to their legislation and policy commitments to protecting animals.
AWBI: A statutory advisory body on Animal Welfare Laws and promotes animal welfare in the country.
CPCSEA: A statutory Committee to regulate use of laboratory animals in testing and research. CZA: A statutory body responsible for oversight of zoos. NBWL: An apex statutory body constituted for all wildlife-related matters. NIAW: An apex body to improve animal welfare through research, education and public outreach.
NTCA: A statutory body constituted for strengthening tiger conservation.
Project Elephant: A centrally sponsored scheme for the protection of elephants, their habitats and corridors.
RKA: As an integral part of Rashtriya Gokul Mission, the RKA organize animal husbandry on modern and scientific lines.
SPCA: An organization run by voluntary members with District Magistrate as the chairperson that aims to help animals in distress in every way possible.
Statutory Bodies: A body set up by law which is authorised to enact legislation on behalf of the country or state.
Wildlife Crime Control Bureau: A statutory multi-disciplinary body to combat organized wildlife crime in the country.
World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE): An inter-governmental organisation with a total of 182 member countries responsible for setting standards for animal health and veterinary services, which also includes animal welfare standards.
11.17 BIBLIOGRAPHY AND FURTHER READING
Mitra, P.P. (2016). Wild Animal Protection Laws in India, Lexis Nexis, Gurgaon.
Mitra, P.P. (2019). An Introduction to Animal Laws in India, Thomson Reuters, Gurgaon. http://his-india.in/contact-us.html http://www.sanjaygandhianimalcarecentre.org/ http://www.wsdindia.org/aboutwsd.htm https://allcreaturesgreatandsmall.in/ https://animalequality.in/ 190 https://bluecrossofhyd.org/ Animal Welfare Organizations https://helpanimalsindia.org/ https://mercyforanimals.in/about/ https://veganoutreach.org/ https://wildlifesos.org/ https://www.ciwf.com/ https://www.eurogroupforanimals.org/ https://www.fiapo.org/fiaporg/ https://www.hsi.org/ https://www.ifaw.org/international https://www.peta.org/ https://www.petaindia.com/ https://www.rspca.org.uk/ https://www.strawindia.org/ https://www.wagoa.com/ https://www.worldanimalprotection.org/ 11.18 SELF ASSESSMENT EXERCISES
1) List the major national and global animal welfare statutory bodies / organizations. Discuss any four of them.
2) Explain the salient features of NTCA and Project Elephant.
3) List the important national and global animal welfare not-for-profit organizations. Discuss any four of them.
4) What is the role of World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) in animal welfare?
11.19 ANSWERS / HINTS TO CHECK YOUR PROGRESS
Check Your Progress 1
1) Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying and Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
2) (a) AWBI and CPCSEA (b) NBWL and CZA
3) State Animal Welfare Board, State Gau Sewa Aayog and State Wildlife Advisory Board
4) The AWBI provides financial assistance to animal welfare organizations in the form of regular grant, cattle rescue grant, provision of shelter house for looking after the animals, animal birth control programme, provision of ambulance for the animals in distress and natural calamity grant. 191 Animal Welfare Statutory 5) The NBWL is primarily responsible for the promotion of wildlife Bodies and Organizations conservation, and the development of wildlife and forests.
6) The objectives of Project Elephant are to: ensure the welfare of domesticated elephants; Protection of elephants, their habitats and elephant corridors, and; Mitigation and prevention of human-elephant conflict.
Check Your Progress 2
1) The common activities are promoting vegetarianism, creating public awareness for being kind to the animals and establishment of rescue homes, animal shelters, hospitals, mobile dispensaries, sterilization of stray animals, offering pets for adoption and keeping ambulance vans for transporting ill and injured animals, sanctuaries, pinjarpoles and gaushalas, where animals and birds in distress stay under protection.
2) The examples for national animal welfare NGOs include PFA, Blue Cross of India, Compassion Unlimited Plus Action, Federation of Indian Animal Protection Organization. The examples for global animal welfare NGOs are PETA, HSI, World Animal Protection and RSPCA.
192 Animal Welfare UNIT 12 CPCSEA Organizations
Structure 12.1 Learning Outcomes 12.2 Introduction 12.3 CPCSEA 12.3.1 Functions and Guidelines 12.3.2 Ethical Principles 12.4 Institutional Animals Ethics Committee (IAEC) 12.4.1 IAEC – Goal, Objectives and Functions 12.4.2 Constitution and Reconstitution of IAEC and their Roles 12.4.3 Quorum Requirements and Conduct of IAEC Meeting 12.4.4 Role of Subject Expert in IAEC Meeting 12.4.5 Decision-making of IAEC of the Establishment 12.4.6 Role and Responsibilities of Nominees of CPCSEA 12.4.7 Suggestions to CPCSEA Nominee 12.4.8 Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for IAEC of the CPCSEA 12.5 Guidelines for the Reuse and Rehabilitation of Laboratory Animals and Dogs 12.5.1 The Rationale and Need 12.5.2 Rehabilitation of Laboratory Animals and Dogs 12.5.3 Reuse of Laboratory Animals and Dogs in Experiments 12.6 Let Us Sum Up 12.7 Keywords 12.8 Bibliography / Further Reading 12.9 Self Assessment Exercises 12.10 Answer / Hints to Check your Progress 12.1 LEARNING OUTCOMES a) Knowledge and Understanding: After studying this Unit, you will be able to: Comprehend meaning, guidelines, objectives and functions of CPCSEA and IAEC. Justify the need for the CPCSEA and IAEC. b) Practical and Professional Skills: After studying this Unit, you will be able to: Discuss the ethical principles adopted for use of animals in scientific experiments. Describe the protocols and guidelines for the use of animals in research and other related purposes.
193 Animal Welfare Statutory Bodies and Organizations 12.2 INTRODUCTION
Dear Learner,
In MAW-002 and MAW-004 (Units on Laboratory Animal Welfare Issues and Standards), we discussed briefly about ‘The Committee for the Purpose of Control and Supervision of Experiments on Animals (CPCSEA)’. In this unit, we will discuss about the CPCSEA in detail.
The CPCSEA is a statutory Committee, which is established under Chapter 4, Section 15(1) of the PCA Act, 1960. India is one of the pioneering countries to institute PCA Act in 1960 whereas such Act was instituted in France in 1963 and in USA in 1966. The detailed rules for experimentation on animals were first enacted by the Ministry of Agriculture in 1968 and were implemented by a Committee set up in pursuance of Section 15(1) of the PCA Act,1960. However, the Committee was later wound up in 1977. After a hiatus of 13 years, a recommendation to reconstitute CPCSEA was received from Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI). After due consideration of the recommendation of AWBI, the CPCSEA was set up in 1991. The Committee was, subsequently, reconstituted routinely.
12.3 CPCSEA
12.3.1 Functions and Guidelines
All establishments engaged in research and education involving animals, are required to comply with the various guidelines, norms and stipulations set out by CPCSEA. The main functions of CPCSEA are:
1) Registration of establishments conducting animal experimentation or breeding of animals for this purpose.
2) Selection and appointment of nominees in the Institutional Animal Ethics Committees (IAEC) of registered establishments.
3) Approval of Animal House Facilities on the basis of reports of inspections conducted by CPCSEA. 4) Permission for conducting experiments involving use of animals. 5) Recommendation for import of animals for use in experiments. 6) Action against establishments in case of violation of any legal norm/ stipulation. The CPCSEA broad guidelines for the conduct of animal experiments are summarised in Box 12.1. Box 12.1: The CPCSEA Guidelines for the Conduct of Animal Experiments 1) Animals are maintained in a proper and healthy manner. 2) Animals are not subjected to unnecessary pain or suffering before, during and after performance of experiments on them. 194 CPCSEA 3) There is no unnecessary sacrifice of animals for the sake of science. 4) There should be no duplication of research. 5) Animals are kept in disease free condition to ensure proper data collection. 6) Animals are procured from registered breeders. 7) Experiments on large animals are to be avoided whenever it is possible to achieve the same results by experiments on small laboratory animals. 12.3.2 Ethical Principles
There are certain ethical principles adopted for use of animals in scientific experiments which are as follows:
Principle No.1: Experiments may be carried out for the purpose of advancement by new discovery of physiological knowledge, or of knowledge which is expected to be useful for saving or for prolonging human life or alleviating suffering, or for significant gains in well-being of the people of the country or for combating any disease, whether of human being, animals or plants.
Principle No.2: Animals lowest on the phylogenetic scale and with the least degree of sentience should be first considered for any experiment designed with the minimum number of animals to give statistically valid results at 95% degree of confidence. Alternative should be given due care and sound justification provided, if available alternatives are not used.
(Please refer MAW-004, Unit 13 on ‘Alternatives to Animal Usage in Teaching, Testing and Research’ for more details)
Principle No.3: Proper use of animals in experiments and avoidance/ minimization of distress and pain inflicted on experimental animals should be an issue of priority for research personnel and unless and contrary is established, investigators should consider that procedures that cause pain or distress in human being will also cause pain or distress in animals. All scientific procedures adopted with animals that may cause more than momentary or slight pain / distress should be performed with appropriate sedation, analgesia or anaesthesia.
Principle No.4: Persons using experimental animals have moral responsibility for the welfare of animals during and after experimentation and may be permitted to euthanize animals only in situations as defined. Cost of aftercare/rehabilitation of animals post-experimentation are to be the part of research cost and should be scaled in positive correlation with the level of sentience of the animals.
Principle No.5: The living conditions of animals should be appropriate for their species and contribute to the health and comfort. Normally, the housing, feeding and care of all animals used for biomedical purposes must be directed by a veterinarian or other scientist trained or experienced in proper care, handling and use of the species being maintained or studied. In any case, veterinary care shall be provided as required. 195 Animal Welfare Statutory Check Your Progress 1 Bodies and Organizations Note: a) Use the spaces given below for your answers. b) Check your answer with those given at the end of the unit. 1) What is CPCSEA? ......
2) Mention any two functions of CPCSEA......
3) Write the importance of 4th ethical principle adopted for use of animals in experiments......
12.4 INSTITUTIONAL ANIMALS ETHICS COMMITTEE (IAEC)
The IAEC is a local body, approved by CPCSEA, which has been empowered to permit experiments on small animals through an amendment in Rules for Breeding and Experiments on Animals (Control and Supervision) in year 2006. 12.4.1 IAEC – Goal, Objectives and Functions
The IAEC is a body comprising of a group of persons recognized and registered by the CPCSEA in an establishment which is constituted and operated in accordance with procedures specified for the purpose by the Committee. a) Goal of IAEC Review and approve research protocols Prevent unnecessary suffering to animals during experimentation 196 Proper accommodation /veterinary care CPCSEA Humane disposal after termination of the study Mid-term termination if unnecessary to prevent suffering Adequately skilled personnel to do the experiments b) Objectives of IAEC IAEC has been designed to secure the following objectives: Every experiment shall be performed by or under the supervision of a person duly qualified in that behalf, that is, degree holders in Veterinary Science or Medicine or Laboratory Animal Science of a University or an Institution recognised by the Government for the purpose and under the responsibility of the person performing the experiment;
That experiments are performed with due care and humanity and as far as possible experiments involving operations are performed under the influence of some anaesthetic of sufficient power to prevent the animals from feeling pain;
That animals who, in the course of experiments under the influence of anaesthetics, are so injured that their recovery would involve serious suffering, are medically allowed to death while still under influence of anaesthetic; That experiment on animals is avoided wherever it is possible to do so. That experiments on larger animals are avoided when it is possible to achieve the same results by experiments on small laboratory animals like guinea-pigs, rabbits, mice, rats etc;
That, as far as possible, experiments are not performed merely for the purpose of acquiring manual skill;
That animals intended for the performance of experiments are properly looked after before, during and after experiments;
Those suitable records are maintained with respect to experiments performed on animals. c) Functions of IAEC The functions of IAEC are as follows: Work for achievement of the objectives as mentioned above (primary duty).
Focus mainly on ensuring ethical and methodical handling of animals during and after experiments, so that they have less suffering.
Review and approve all types of protocols for research involving small animal experimentation before the start of the study.
For approval of experimentation on large animals, the case is required to be forwarded to CPCSEA in prescribed manner with the recommendation of IAEC. 197 Animal Welfare Statutory Monitor the research throughout the study and after completion of study, Bodies and Organizations IAEC shall obtain the periodic reports on research development and shall ensure visit to animal house facility and laboratory where the experiments are conducted.
The committee has to ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements, applicable rules, guidelines and laws. In addition, the committee ensures: That the use of animals is necessary to answer a scientific question. A search for alternatives to the pain and distress is conducted and that pain and distress experienced by the animals is minimized.
That all the laws and policies for the use of laboratory animals are followed, including environmental safety.
The committee also ensures the humane care of animals through the inspection of animal housing and use facilities and by investigating any complaints made regarding animal use.
The committee is also responsible for reporting any instances of non- compliance and recommending corrective action. 12.4.2 Constitution and Reconstitution of IAEC and their Roles
The CPCSEA constitutes the IAEC on receipt of five names from the establishment/institute and then nominate four names from outside the institute.
IAEC is constituted for duration of five years and is required to be reconstituted at the time of renewal of registration. At least half of the members will be replaced at the time of renewal.
A member can be replaced in the event of death or long-term non- availability or for any action not commensurate with the responsibilities laid down in the guidelines deemed unfit for a member.
A member can tender resignation from the committee with proper reasons to do so.
All members should maintain absolute confidentiality of all discussions during the meeting and sign a confidentiality form.
Conflict of interest should be declared by members of the IAEC.
IAEC is required to formulate a SOP for its working requirements and follow it in all the meetings.
Foreign Nationals shall not be allowed as member of the IAECs of any establishments.
The composition of IAEC is summarised in Box 12.2
198 CPCSEA Box 12.2. IAEC Composition IAEC shall include eight members: From within Institute/establishment: Biological scientist: 1 Scientists from different biological disciplines: 2 Veterinarian involved in the care of animal: 1 Scientist-in-charge of animal facility: 1 The Chairperson of the Committee and Member Secretary would be nominated by the establishment from amongst the above five members. From CPCSEA: Main nominee: 1 Link nominee*: 1 Scientist from outside the Institute: 1 Socially aware nominee: 1 (*Link Nominee shall substitute the main nominee in case main nominee conveys his unavailability in writing to the chairperson of the IAEC in advance as per described procedure).
Having a veterinarian in IAEC is mandatory for judging level of care and handling of laboratory animals in a given protocol. In addition to the above IAEC members, a specialist may be co-opted of the relevant field while reviewing special project using hazardous agents such as radioactive substance and deadly microorganisms. 12.4.3 Quorum Requirements and Conduct of IAEC Meeting
The minimum of 6 members (including CPCSEA main nominee) are required to meet the quorum. All decisions should be taken in meetings and not by circulation of project proposals. Presence of main nominee of CPCSEA is a must. Link nominee can attend in case main nominee conveys his unavailability in writing to the Chairman IAEC. At least two meetings in a calendar year must be conducted. Socially aware nominee presence is compulsory in all cases referred to CPCSEA and in cases when research protocols involving small animals and large animals will be considered and at least in one meeting in a calendar year. It shall be the duty of establishment to inform to CPCSEA about the continuous absence of nominees of CPCSEA in a calendar year. The Chairperson will conduct all meetings of the IAEC. The Member Secretary is responsible for organizing the meetings, maintaining the records and communicating with all concerned. 199 Animal Welfare Statutory A copy of minutes is required to be sent (uploaded online on Bodies and Organizations www.cpcsea.nic.in) to Member Secretary CPCSEA within 15 days of the meeting, otherwise, the meeting will not be considered valid. 12.4.4 Role of Subject Expert in IAEC Meeting
IAEC may call upon subject experts who may provide special review of selected research protocols, if need be.
They are required to give their specialized views but do not take part in the decision-making process.
Investigators whose proposals are to be discussed can also be called to present their case to the IAEC. 12.4.5 Decision-making of IAEC of the Establishment Members will discuss various issues before arriving at a consensus decision. A member should withdraw from the meeting during the decision procedure concerning an application where a conflict of interest arises and this should be indicated to the chairperson prior to the review of the application and recorded in the minutes. Decisions will be made only in meetings where quorum is complete. Only members of IAEC can vote for the decision. The experts / investigators /invitees may only offer their opinions.
In case of research protocols on small animals, the IAEC of the establishment shall be empowered to grant approval for experiment on animals considering the welfare of the animals.
For carrying out the experiment on large animals, approval of CPCSEA is a must and IAEC may only recommend the research protocol for consideration of CPCSEA. Specific suggestions for modifications in the research protocol and reasons for rejection should be clearly indicated.
Decision may be to approve, reject or revise the proposals. Specific suggestions for modifications and reasons for rejection should be given.
In cases of conditional decisions, clear suggestions for revision and the procedure for having the application re-reviewed should be specified.
Modified proposals may be reviewed by an expedited review through identified members.
Procedures for appeal by the researchers should be clearly defined by the respective IAEC. 12.4.6 Role and Responsibilities of Nominees of CPCSEA
The primary responsibility of CPCSEA nominee is the well-being and welfare of the animals housed or kept for experiments / breeding. With this in mind, the nominee should be familiar with the rules governing housing, experiments and 200 after care of the animals. It is also imperative that the nominee upholds the dignity CPCSEA of the CPCSEA at all times.
A nominee should: 1) Ensure that meeting notices and associated papers sent by the Institution are carefully read and understood. All institutions are requested that papers should be sent to IAEC members before 20-30 days (depending on bulk) to allow reasonable time for the concerned to go through the papers and make suggestions / recommendations at the meeting.
Go through the protocol of the experiment/ proposals and if in doubt regarding the justification for the experiment and whether it could be carried out using smaller or a lesser number of animals, raise the issue in IAEC meeting and clarify. Any protocol which uses animals other than guinea pigs, rabbits, rats, mice, hamsters and invertebrate animals should be first cleared by the IAEC and then sent to CPCSEA for clearance.
2) During the meeting, a) The nominee should be polite, yet ensure that the points raised are taken note of. b) Do not allow others to intimidate. c) Ask for clarifications to make an informed decision on the points discussed. 3) In the best interests of animals, it is important that the nominee secures the co-operation of the other members of the IAEC by persuasion, rather than by confrontation. To do this, it would be helpful for the nominee to collect as much information as possible on the subject and familiarize himself/ herself with the kind of experiments being carried out at the laboratory – for example, if regulatory law for a chemical requires its mandatory testing on six animals, it is futile for the nominee to argue that four would be sufficient.
4) Since feeding and watering of the animals must be provided for during non-working hours as well as on holidays, the nominees should check the animal houses at such times whenever possible. No prior intimation is required as per rules (PCA Act, 1960).
As a nominee of the CPCSEA, it is important that you believe in yourself, be proud to serve this noble cause and develop the confidence to do so.
5) CPCSEA nominee is also required to see the finer details of animal experimentation which need to be adhered to by the Institute / Establishment. Ensure that all ongoing projects and projects to be implemented have been represented and documented in ‘Form B’ with signature and date (for experiments using animals other than non-human primates and experiments using non-human primates). A nominee should carefully scrutinize and study the details regarding: Number of animals used. Species used, breed in case of dogs and genus in case of primates. 201 Animal Welfare Statutory Whether contract/collaborative research. Bodies and Organizations Funding agency. Substance tested. Name of client for whom the test/ experiment is being conducted. Method of euthanasia. 6) Check for any discrepancies regarding number of animals declared and number of animals in the animal house through a physical count. Check for any discrepancies. Cross check with other available documents such as animal house records. If animals are not sacrificed after the experiment, what happens to them? Check rehabilitation if necessary.
7) On visiting the animal house, ensure that experimental animals are treated well and attended more often than non-experimental animals. 8) Inspect and ensure for the following: a) Animals should be located in a quiet atmosphere, undisturbed by traffic. b) Premises should be kept tidy and hygienic conditions to be maintained. c) Animals should be protected from drought and extremes of weather and suitable bedding provided. d) Animal cages for small animals and stables for large animals should be in such a way that the animal lives in comfort and overcrowding is avoided. e) Enrichment of environment and provision for socializing. f) Method of housing – ensure excreta of one cage does not enter other cages. g) Animal attendants should be suitably trained and experienced in handling animals. h) Arrangements for feeding and care of animals are made for holidays/ weekends/emergencies. i) Only trained persons should be allowed to carry out the experiments. The welfare measures in animal house to be ensured by CPCSEA nominee are summarised in Box 12.3. Box 12.3: Welfare Measures in Animal Houses An animal which grows and behaves normally and is free of disease is usually considered to be in a state of “Well Being”. All aspects of animal care should be directed towards the achievement and preservation of this state from welfare perspective. Housing: Location and space requirement, type of cages, material, environment. Feed: Feeding schedule, type of diet. Water: Clean sterile water, type of bottle, nozzle. Exercise: Inside the cage if it is large enough –otherwise in open space, especially for large animals. 202 Health: Diseases, health check-up records. CPCSEA Handling: Whether personnel are trained? Companionship: Do they provide companionship of compatible members of the same species? Solitary confinement is not recommended except in specific cases. 12.4.7 Suggestions to CPCSEA Nominee
1) Nominee should not decide the merit and demerit of any specific research, but he should ensure that experiments are performed in humane manner with minimum suffering to animals and minimum possible use of animals.
2) Nominee is not allowed to print visiting cards, letter heads with his/her name with Government of India official seal as IAEC nominee.
3) Nominee is not permitted to make any campaign/publicity about his/her role and solicit any sponsorship from any organization falling under his/her jurisdiction. Nominee should not sign the minutes of the meeting/forms/ register without attending the meeting in person.
4) Nominees should not allow any tele/audio conference with a non-participating member during the IAEC meeting. Nominee should not allow any outside member to attend the IAEC meeting.
5) The nominees must keep themselves away from the media and press and will not disclose the confidential information related to the institution they are attached with or the CPCSEA.
6) Although all the nominees are very accomplished and dignified, Nominees are requested to abstain from entertaining any kind of favour in cash or kind other than sitting fee. Institutions have right to complain against a nominee, if the nominee exceeds his/her limit considering himself/herself as authority of licensing or passing any inspection etc. Since several nominees also belong to some research institution, they may appreciate this clarity of communication.
7) It is the responsibility of the nominee to be truthful in evaluation and reporting and he/she should not challenge or threat any organization.
In nutshell, a nominee should feel graceful in having recognised by CPCSEA as a responsible person to guide and upgrade quality of research and institutions and should not feel that he is empowered by CPCSEA to take actions or decisions. His role is to report the discrepancy, if any, to CPCSEA. 12.4.8 Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for IAEC of the CPCSEA A typical SOP for IAEC of the CPCSEA may contain the following documents: Objectives and functions of IAEC. Composition of IAEC. Authority, responsibility and quorum requirement.
Conduct of meetings, participation of investigators/ experts, application and 203 Animal Welfare Statutory review procedure. Bodies and Organizations Decision making and communication of decision. Follow up procedures, record keeping, update of IAEC members, reporting to CPCSEA. Reimbursement to CPCSEA representatives, performance of experiment. Laboratory animal ethics, documentation, elements of review. Penalties. Application for registration of breeder / establishment / educational institution (Form A). Application for permission for animal experiments (Form B Part A & B). Record of animals bred/acquired & record of animals acquired and experiments performed (Form C&D). Record of animals sold to the establishment by the traders (Form E). Checklist for protocol. Format of checklist and inspection report. Format of checklist and inspection report for annual inspection of establishments registered with CPCSEA. Annual statement of large animal use. Format of rodent study data. Proforma to be filled and submitted by the establishment for rehabilitation of dogs through adoption. Undertaking by principal investigator. Format of main nominee/chairman certificate. One page CV of principal investigators. One page CV of IAEC members. Secrecy undertaking by IAEC members. Six monthly and final progress reports. Nominee application form. Before we proceed, please complete activity 1.
Activity 1 (Interaction): Visit a nearby research institute with laboratory animal facility. Discuss with the IAEC Member Secretary about the composition of IAEC and nominee of CPCSEA. Compare the composition with the details given in Box 12.2 and write your observations...... 204 Check Your Progress 2 CPCSEA Note: a) Use the spaces given below for your answers. b) Check your answer with those given at the end of the unit. 1) What is meant by IAEC? ......
2) What is the composition of IAEC? ......
3) Write the responsibilities of CPCSEA nominees......
4) Name the forms mentioned under the SOPs for IAEC of the CPCSEA...... 205 Animal Welfare Statutory Bodies and Organizations 12.5 GUIDELINES FOR THE REUSE AND REHABILITATION OF LABORATORY ANIMALS AND DOGS
As mandated by the Breeding of and Experiments on Animals (Control and Supervision) Rules, 1998 (which states that “animals intended for the performance of experiments are properly looked after both before and after experiments”), the CPCSEA finds it necessary to frame guidelines which limit the use of animals in testing / research and their care after use in experiments. These guidelines define a time limit for which animals can be tested and/or housed in laboratories. The guidelines are based on the premise that animals in laboratories undergo psychological, physiological and physical trauma, not just from the interventions made on them, but also from solitary confinement, lack of natural conditions, caging, handling and absence of appropriate social interaction. The concept of Rehabilitation has been recognized in India as the 4th R (3 R ’s - Replacement, Reduction and Refinement) and evolved as an official policy of the CPCSEA in 2004.
(Please refer MAW-002 (Unit 20) and MAW-004 (Unit 13) for more details on 3 R’s) 12.5.1 The Rationale and Need
Re-use of animals of higher phylogenetic order such as dogs is more common for several reasons, most often to save costs incurred in purchasing new animals. The advent of newer and less invasive methods of analysis, such as telemetry and imaging technologies, have also increased the possibility of reusing animals. Often, animals that have been used for a study and have not been subjected to an invasive procedure are used for a further scientific study. However, these animals are sometimes reused overlooking the physiological, psychological and physical trauma endured by them and hence these guidelines have been evolved to ensure the welfare of the animals before any repeat use in experimentation or prolonged housing in laboratories. The effects on individual animals and their welfare must be considered on a case-by-case basis before reuse. Reusing animals as a reduction strategy must be promoted with extreme caution because reuse increases the potential of increased harm and trauma to individual animals and hence increases its quantum of suffering. Re-use of animals for invasive procedures for reasons related to convenience and cost saving are never appropriate and cannot be approved for. 12.5.2 Rehabilitation of Laboratory Animals and Dogs
The concept of 4th R “Rehabilitation” of laboratory animals is defined as “the aftercare rendered to animals that have been (i) bred for the purpose of experimentation (ii) subject to any form of experimentation (iii) retained in laboratory animal houses or breeding houses for the purpose of experimentation, both for education and research, with the sole intention of alleviating the pain/ distress or suffering due to the physical, physiological and psychological trauma that the animals have been exposed to and to provide the animal a life distinctly different from laboratory housing and care, until the point of natural death (CPCSEA, 2018)”. 206 Dogs that have completed the three-year experimental term or if not permitted CPCSEA for reuse within the three-year period should be promptly rehabilitated by the institute with information to the CPCSEA. In the case of dogs, adoption by families may be encouraged, after the animals have been spayed/castrated by the institute and adoption facilitated through trustworthy Animal Welfare Organization/s (AWO/s), after due approval of CPCSEA. Otherwise, institutes should bear the costs of rehabilitation in their own facilities, until the natural death of the animal. 12.5.3 Reuse of Laboratory Animals and Dogs in Experiments
After completion of an experiment, an animal is used again in the same or a different protocol, where an unused animal would have equally sufficed to meet the objectives of the second/or subsequent use. The CPCSEA’s consent for reuse would be generally conditional upon the animal having suffered no significant adverse effects as a consequence of the first use, and the animal not having been subjected to any intervention which compromises its welfare and suitability on scientific terms, as a subject for the second or subsequent use. The CPCSEA reserves its right to make a decision on matters of reuse. It must be authorized/ approved by the CPCSEA for each individual animal, limiting their reuse/stay in laboratory housing to a maximum period of three years. Health certificate for fitness of animals intended for reuse must be obtained from a qualified veterinarian and should include a complete clinical examination, including vital signs i.e. Temperature, Pulse and Respiration rates (TPR), skin condition, behaviour of animals, Complete Blood Count (CBC), Kidney Function Test (KFT) and Liver Function Test (LFT). The veterinarian should clearly certify that there has been no adverse effects including psychosomatic disorders, by way of the first experiment/caging and due to laboratory housing/procedures. Animals showing stereotypic behaviour, fear, freezing on human touch; genetic or physical defects; permanent implants, etc. should be declared unfit for reuse and recommended for proper rehabilitation.
Before we proceed, please complete activity 2.
Activity 2 (Interaction): In continuation of activity 1 in the previous section, discuss with the IAEC Member Secretary about the reuse, rehabilitation of the experimental animals and welfare measures followed. Compare the outcome with those given in the above section and identify the non- compliances...... 207 Animal Welfare Statutory Check Your Progress 3 Bodies and Organizations Note: a) Use the spaces given below for your answers. b) Check your answer with those given at the end of the unit. 1) What are the 4Rs? ......
2) Define “Rehabilitation” of laboratory animals......
3) Write the pre-requisites to issue a health certificate for reuse of laboratory animals and dogs in experiments......
4) What is the maximum period up to which a dog can be used in toxicity studies? ...... 208 CPCSEA 12.6 LET US SUM UP
In this unit, you learnt about the Committee for the Purpose of Control and Supervision of Experiments on Animals (CPCSEA) and the Ethical principles adopted for use of animals in scientific experiments.
This unit also gave an overview on the Institutional Animals Ethics Committee (IAEC), its constitution and reconstitution, roles of the members and the SOPs for IAEC.
Aspects related to the guidelines for the reuse and rehabilitation of laboratory animals and dogs are also discussed.
12.7 KEYWORDS
Invasive: Introduction of instruments or other objects into the body or body cavities.
Phylogenetic: Relating to the evolutionary development and diversification of a species or group of organisms, or of a particular feature of an organism. Psychosomatic: Relating to the interaction of mind and body. Spayed: Process of removing the ovaries and uterus of a female pet. Telemetry: The process of recording and transmitting the readings of an instrument. 12.8 BIBLIOGRAPHY/ FURTHER
CPCSEA (2018). Compendium of CPCSEA. The Committee for the Purpose of Control and Supervision of Experiments on Animals. http://cpcsea.nic.in/ WriteReadData/userfiles/file/Compendium%20of%20CPCSEA.pdf Web Resources Instructions of CPCSEA for the Animal House Facilities (2019) http://cpcsea.nic.in/WriteReadData/LnPdf/InstructionofCPCSEAforthe animalhousefacilities.pdf CPCSEA (2020). Guidelines of CPCSEA for Reuse/ Rehabilitation of Large Animals post experimentation Guidelines of CPCSEA for Reuse Rehabilitation of Large Animals.pdf Various Guidelines of CPCSEA http://cpcsea.nic.in/Content/55_1_GUIDELINES.aspx (Acknowledgment: The contents of this unit are based on the ‘Compendium of CPCSEA (2018) and Various Guidelines Issued by the CPCSEA, which are available in public domain. The work of CPCSEA is gratefully acknowledged).
209 Animal Welfare Statutory Bodies and Organizations 12.9 SELF ASSESSMENT EXERCISES 1) What are the objectives, role and functions of CPCSEA? 2) Explain the ethical principles adopted for use of animals in scientific experiments. 3) Discuss the requirements to conduct an IAEC meeting. 4) Why rehabilitation and reuse of dogs are important? 12.10 ANSWER/ HINTS TO CHECK YOUR PROGRESS
Check Your Progress 1
1) CPCSEA which stand for “The Committee for the Purpose of Control and Supervision of Experiments on Animals” is the national regulatory body constituted under the provision of Section 15 of PCA Act, 1960.
2) The functions of CPCSEA are: registration of establishments conducting animal experimentation or breeding of animals for this purpose, selection and appointment of nominees in the IAECs, approval of animal house facilities based on inspection reports, permission for conducting experiments involving animals etc.
3) Fourth ethical principle says persons using experimental animals have moral responsibility for the welfare of animals during and after experimentation and may be permitted to euthanize animals only in defined situations. Cost of aftercare/rehabilitation of animals post-experimentation are to be the part of research cost and should be scaled in positive correlation with the level of sentience of the animals.
Check Your Progress 2
1) Institutional Animals Ethics Committee (IAEC) is a body comprising of a group of persons recognized and registered by the CPCSEA in an establishment which is constituted and operated in accordance with procedures specified for the purpose by the Committee.
2) IAEC shall include eight members - 5 from within Institute/ Establishment viz. one biological scientist, two scientists from different biological disciplines, one veterinarian involved in the care of animal and one scientist- in-Charge of Animal Facility; 3 from CPCSEA viz. one main nominee or one link nominee, one scientist from outside the Institute and one socially aware nominee.
3) The primary responsibility of CPCSEA nominee on IAEC is the well-being and welfare of the animals housed or kept for experiments / breeding. The nominee should be familiar with the rules governing housing, experiments and after care of the animals.
4) Different forms are: Form A (Application for registration of breeder/ establishment/ educational institution); Form B (Part A&B: Application for permission for animal experiments); Form C&D (Record of animals bred/ 210 acquired & record of animals acquired and experiments performed), and; CPCSEA Form E (Record of animals sold to the establishment by the traders).
Check Your Progress 3
1) Replacement, Reduction, Refinement and Rehabilitation are the 4 R’s.
2) Rehabilitation of laboratory animals is “the aftercare rendered to animals that have been (i) bred for the purpose of experimentation (ii) subject to any form of experimentation (iii) retained in laboratory animal houses or breeding houses for the purpose of experimentation, both for education and research, with the sole intention of alleviating the pain/distress or suffering due to the physical, physiological and psychological trauma that the animals have been exposed to and to provide the animal a life distinctly different from laboratory housing and care, until the point of natural death”.
3) Health certificate obtained from a qualified veterinarian should include a complete clinical examination, including vital signs i.e. temperature, pulse and respiration rates, skin condition, behaviour of animals, complete blood count, kidney and liver function tests.
4) Dogs used in toxicity studies must be healthy and limit of use of individual dogs should be for a maximum period of three years for pharmacokinetic studies subject to the health status of the dog.
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