Section 4: Establishment of Animal Welfare Board of India

Overview

Section 4 of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, is the foundational provision for the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI). It formally creates the AWBI as a statutory body. The primary goal of the AWBI is to actively promote animal welfare across India and to safeguard animals from avoidable pain and suffering. Essentially, this section gives legal backing to a national body dedicated to improving the lives of animals.

Key Provisions

• Establishment of AWBI: The section explicitly establishes the Animal Welfare Board of India.
• Promotion of Animal Welfare: The AWBI’s core duty is to promote animal welfare generally. This is a broad mandate allowing it to address various issues.
• Protection from Suffering: The AWBI is tasked with protecting animals from unnecessary pain and suffering. This includes preventing cruelty and promoting humane treatment.
• Composition (not detailed in Section 4): While Section 4 establishes the Board, the specific composition, powers, and functions are detailed in subsequent sections (Sections 8-12).

Practical Impact

This section impacts several stakeholders. For citizens, it means there's a national body to address animal welfare concerns and advocate for stronger protections. For businesses (like farms, zoos, and circuses), it implies oversight and the need to adhere to welfare standards. For government authorities, it creates a partner in implementing animal welfare policies and enforcing the Act. The AWBI can advise the government on policy changes, provide grants to animal welfare organizations, and conduct investigations into cruelty cases.

Examples

• Example 1: A local animal shelter receives funding from the AWBI to improve its facilities and provide better care for rescued animals. This demonstrates the AWBI’s role in promoting welfare through financial support.
• Example 2: The AWBI receives complaints about the conditions of animals in a travelling circus. The AWBI investigates, and based on its findings, recommends to the state government that the circus be required to improve its animal care practices or face penalties. This illustrates the AWBI’s role in investigating cruelty and advocating for better standards.