New Delhi, India, January 29, 2026
Discussions are intensifying in major Indian metro cities over a proposed plan to make digital health cards mandatory for pet animals, featuring unique IDs and QR codes that store complete vaccination records and owner information.
Municipal corporations in cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad are reportedly working on the initiative. Each registered pet would receive a unique identification number, with a QR code embedded on its collar. Scanning the code would instantly reveal the animal’s vaccination history, medical details, and owner’s contact information.
The digital record would cover mandatory vaccinations such as anti-rabies shots, eliminating the need for physical documents.
Proponents highlight several benefits. The system could help locate lost pets quickly by providing immediate access to owner details. It would enhance public safety in residential societies and parks by verifying vaccination status, potentially reducing disputes. In emergencies, veterinarians could access the pet’s medical history, including allergies or previous conditions.
However, the proposal has sparked debate. Some pet owners argue the scheme should remain voluntary rather than mandatory. Concerns have been raised about data privacy, particularly regarding the security of owners’ personal information such as addresses and phone numbers.
Animal welfare activists have called for extending similar digital tracking to stray dogs, enabling better monitoring of sterilization and vaccination programs.
Reports suggest the initiative could be expanded nationally through an extension of the National Digital Livestock Mission, with a possible central database proposal in upcoming budgets.
