Bihar's Canine Crisis: Economic Survey Reveals Alarming 16% Surge in Dog Bite Incidents, Exceeding 283,000 Cases in 2024-25

The latest Economic Survey report has unveiled a significant public health and safety concern in Bihar, documenting a sharp increase in dog bite incidents during the 2024-25 fiscal year. According to official data, the state recorded over 283,000 cases, representing a substantial rise of approximately 38,900 incidents compared to the previous year. This 16% year-over-year escalation underscores a growing challenge for local authorities and healthcare systems. The surge in cases points to potential underlying factors such as stray dog population management issues, urbanization pressures, and public awareness gaps regarding animal behavior and preventive measures. The data suggests an urgent need for comprehensive intervention strategies, including enhanced vaccination programs for both animals and humans, community education initiatives, and coordinated efforts between municipal bodies and animal welfare organizations. The economic implications are also noteworthy, as increased medical costs and potential productivity losses could strain public resources. This intelligence indicates that without targeted policy responses, Bihar may face continued escalation of this public health issue, potentially affecting tourism, public safety perceptions, and overall quality of life indicators in the region.