Rabies elimination in india and global perspectives

Rabies is an acute viral zoonotic disease that causes encephalitis and is almost invariably fatal once clinical symptoms develop. Recognized by the World Health Organization as a Neglected Tropical Disease (NTD), rabies imposes a heavy toll on vulnerable populations, particularly in Asia and Africa. Despite the availability of effective vaccines for both humans and animals and well-established strategies for prevention, the global burden remains substantial due to gaps in access to post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), insufficient dog vaccination coverage, and socio-economic and cultural barriers. This review synthesizes the current evidence on the epidemiology of rabies globally and in India, examines proven elimination strategies (mass dog vaccination, PEP, community engagement), analyses major challenges, highlights successful case studies, and outlines future directions under the One Health framework. We emphasize that elimination of dog-mediated human rabies is feasible and cost-effective, but requires sustained political commitment, adequate financing, intersectoral collaboration, and community participation to achieve the global goal of 'Zero by 30' - zero human dog-mediated rabies deaths by 2030.