CBSE issues SOP to prevent dog-bite incidents and manage stray dogs across school premises nationwide

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has circulated a comprehensive communication requiring all its affiliated schools to implement strict measures to prevent dog-bite incidents and control stray dogs in school areas. The advisory is in line with recent guidelines from the Supreme Court, which emphasise the safety, security, and well-being of children in educational institutions.

The directions are based on a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) laid down by the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying. CBSE has asked schools to treat the matter seriously and ensure that the presence of stray dogs does not pose a risk to the school community.




Awareness and prevention of good behaviour in schools

Schools have been instructed to conduct awareness programs for students, staff and faculty members as well as employees of the institute. These workshops should cover animal safety, little help in case of dog bites, and easy reporting. It is expected of you to know who to tell if there is a stray dog in the schoolyard.

The objective is to ensure that every member of the school community knows how to respond calmly and promptly to avoid accidents and injuries.

Removal of dogs living off the streets and ensuring safe premises

CBSE has given a directive to schools to recognize areas in their localities that are at risk of the entry of stray dogs and their sheltering. Any stray dogs found within the school campus should be removed immediately after the coordination of municipal authorities, local elected bodies, and the district administration.

Schools are also tasked with making sure there is adequate fencing, boundary walls, and secure gates. These physical measures are expected to prevent stray animals from coming to or living in the school grounds.

Officers and scheduled checks

A Nodal Officer must be appointed in each school, who will take care of the general cleanliness, maintenance and the prevention of the occurrence of stray dogs inside the school premises. Besides that, the name and contact details of this officer should be displayed prominently at the school entrance.

In addition, schools are required to facilitate inspections at least once every three months. These inspections will be carried out by authorised officials appointed by the State or Union Territory governments to ensure that no stray dog habitat exists within or near the school campus. Any negligence may lead to serious action.

• Read the official notice here

Management of waste and health instruction

CBSE has also stressed the strict implementation of effective waste disposal and drainage systems. It is the duty of schools to ensure that waste is securely stored and removed daily in accordance with the set standards.Ready to navigate global policies? Secure your overseas future. Get expert guidance now!