The Rotary Club of Coimbatore Smart City, recently in collaboration with the Coimbatore City Municipal Corporation (CCMC), officially launched PROJECT RAKSHA, a landmark public health initiative aimed at vaccinating 10,000 stray dogs against rabies as part of the global vision of “One Health – Zero Rabies by 2030.”
The ambitious project seeks to cover at least 70% of Coimbatore’s estimated stray dog population of over one lakh, creating a protective barrier against rabies and significantly enhancing public health while ensuring animal welfare.
The initiative is the vision of District Governor MD Rtn. R.S. Maruti 2026–27, RI District 3206.
It was formally inaugurated in the distinguished presence of Katta Ravi Teja, Commissioner, Coimbatore City Municipal Corporation, and Rtn. Aparna Sunku, District Chairman – Pet & Animal Welfare RI District 3206, President Rotary Club of Coimbatore SmartCity and Project Chair Rtn. Murtuza Raja is leading the project along with Project Co-Chair & Assistant Governor Rtn. Dr. Rohini Sharma, Project Coordinator Rtn. Manish Vyas, Secretary Rtn. Singaram, at Race Course Tower, Coimbatore.
Addressing the gathering, the dignitaries appreciated Rotary’s proactive commitment towards preventive healthcare and animal welfare, emphasising that collaborative efforts between civic bodies and service organisations are essential to achieving a Rabies-Free Coimbatore by 2030.
The launch was well attended by Assistant Governors Rtn. Krishmurthy Rao, District Director, Rtn. Swaminathan, Governor’s Group Representatives (GGRs), Past Presidents, District Officials, Rotarians, fellow Rotarians and members of the community, reflecting Rotary’s united commitment to this vital cause.
Speaking on the occasion, PHF Rtn. Murtuza Raja, President 2026–27, Rotary Club of Coimbatore Smart City, reiterated the club’s commitment to protecting both people and animals through sustained vaccination drives.
With PROJECT RAKSHA, the Rotary Club of Coimbatore Smart City and the Coimbatore City Municipal Corporation reaffirm their shared vision of building a safer, healthier, and rabies-free city through the One Health approach.
By targeting vaccination coverage of over 70% of the city’s stray dog population, the initiative marks a significant step towards achieving the goal of Zero Rabies by 2030.
