The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act-1960, was enacted by the Government of India to prevent unnecessary pain, suffering, and cruelty inflicted on animals.
Need for the Animal Act-1960
Before this Act, there were no specific and structured laws for animal welfare in India.
Animals were often subjected to abuse, exploitation, and neglect in various industries, including research laboratories, transport, entertainment, and agriculture.
Rising concerns among animal welfare activists led to the formulation of this Act to ensure humane treatment of animals.
Scope of the Act
Protects all animals (domestic, wild, and captive).
Applies to individuals, institutions, and organizations that handle or experiment on animals.
Establishes mechanisms for supervision, regulation, and enforcement.