The Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) hosted the Prani Mitra and Jeev Daya Award Ceremony at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi.

• The event recognized individuals and organizations for their exceptional contributions to animal welfare and protection.

About Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI)

• Establishment: AWBI is a statutory body under Section 4 of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960.
• Purpose: It was established in 1962 to promote animal welfare and prevent cruelty to animals in India.
• Serves as an advisory body to the Central and State Governments on animal welfare laws and enforcement.
• Headquarters: Ballabhgarh, Haryana.
• Administered by: Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, Government of India.
• Founded by: Rukmini Devi Arundale, a notable animal rights activist.

Functions and Evolution

• Expanded its role to include awareness programs, policy advisory, and financial aid for animal welfare organizations.
• Composed of 28 members, including 6 Members of Parliament (2 from Rajya Sabha, 4 from Lok Sabha).
• Members serve a three-year term.
• Provides grants to animal welfare organizations and supports State Animal Welfare Boards and District Societies for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.
• Ensures compliance with animal welfare laws and advises the government on related issues.

About Prani Mitra and Jeev Daya Awards

• Objective: Recognizes outstanding efforts in animal welfare, protection, and humane treatment of animals.
• Encourages kindness, compassion, and responsible animal care in society.

Prani Mitra Award (Established in 1966)

• Initially for individuals, later extended to organizations.
• Given in five categories:
  • Advocacy (Individual) 
  • Innovative Idea (Individual)
  • Lifetime Animal Service (Individual)
  • Animal Welfare Organization (AWO)
  • Corporate/PSUs/Government Bodies/Cooperatives

Jeev Daya Award (Established in 2001)

• Given in three categories:
  • Individual
  • Animal Welfare Organization 
  • Schools/Institutions/Teachers/Children (Under 18 years)