Facilitation in Import of Pet Dogs and Cats Along with Stranded Indians from War-Hit Middle East Countries

The Government of India has announced a one-time relaxation measure to facilitate the import of pet dogs and cats accompanying stranded Indian nationals from war-hit Middle East countries. This initiative, issued by the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying (DAHD) under the Live-stock Importation Act, 1898, aims to address the unique and extraordinary circumstances faced by Indian citizens in these regions. Below, we provide a detailed overview of the guidelines and procedures for this special facilitation.

Background

The importation of live animals into India is regulated under the Live-stock Importation Act, 1898, to prevent the spread of infectious or contagious diseases. The procedures for such imports were previously outlined in S.O. 1495 (dated June 11, 2014) and the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) issued on July 15, 2020. However, due to the ongoing crisis in war-hit Middle East countries, the Government of India has decided to relax certain pre-export formalities to ensure the safe return of stranded Indian nationals along with their pets.

Key Guidelines for Import of Pet Dogs and Cats 

Pre-Import Conditions

Declaration of Ownership: The pet owner must declare that the pet dog or cat has been residing with them for at least the past one month.
Vaccination Records: The owner must provide a pet vaccination certificate, pet book, or pet passport that details the vaccination history. Vaccinations that are due or delayed will also be considered.
Veterinary Check-Up: If the pet is being transported from nearby neighboring countries, owners are advised to have the pet checked by veterinary authorities at the airport or nearby facilities, if available.

Post-Import Conditions

Pets with Official Veterinary Health Certificates: Pets arriving with proper veterinary health certificates and vaccination details issued by neighboring countries will undergo document verification and clinical examination by Animal Quarantine and Certification Services (AQCS) at the airport. Upon successful examination, final AQCS clearance will be granted.
Pets with Updated Vaccination Certificates: Pets with updated vaccination certificates will also receive AQCS clearance after document verification and clinical examination.
Pets with Delayed or Missing Vaccination Certificates: Pets with delayed vaccinations (up to 15 days) or without any veterinary health certificates will be vaccinated for rabies at the port of entry. The cost of vaccination will be borne by the owners. After vaccination and clinical examination, AQCS clearance will be provided.

Quarantine Costs

If any abnormal findings are detected during the clinical examination, the pet will be quarantined at the concerned AQCS facility.
All expenses related to post-import quarantine, including quarantine charges, vaccinations, and medications, will be borne by the pet owners as per actual or prevailing applicable charges.

Important Notes

Non-Precedent Policy: This facilitation is a one-time measure and will not be considered or quoted as a precedent for future cases.
Coordination with Other Departments: The requirements of other departments or agencies, such as the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) and Customs, must be adhered to. These agencies will take appropriate actions as necessary.
Dynamic Situation: The situation in the Middle East is rapidly evolving, and this circular is issued specifically to address the current crisis.

Implementation and Communication

The Central Board of Indirect Taxes & Customs (CBIC) has directed all Chief Commissioners, Commissioners, and Director Generals under its jurisdiction to ensure the dissemination of this facilitation measure. Trade and public notices should be issued to inform stakeholders, including airlines and carriers, about the new guidelines. Additionally, standing orders and instructions should be provided to field officers for effective implementation.

Contact Information

For further details or assistance, stakeholders can reach out to the following authorities:

Foreign Secretary, Ministry of External Affairs: psfs@mea.gov.in
Commerce Secretary, Ministry of Commerce & Industry: csoffice@nic.in
Secretary, Ministry of Civil Aviation: secy.moca@nic.in
Director General, Directorate General of Foreign Trade: dgft@nic.in
Joint Secretary (Customs), CBIC: jscus@nic.in
Director (Customs), Department of Revenue: dircus@nic.in

Conclusion

This one-time relaxation measure reflects the Government of India’s commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of its citizens and their pets during challenging times. It is a compassionate step to reunite families with their beloved pets while maintaining necessary health and safety protocols. For more information, visit the official websites of the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying and Animal Quarantine Certification Services (AQCS).

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Source: CBIC, Ministry of Finance, Govt. of India

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