03 Jan
Fear of Tax Leads to WB Pet Owners Hiding Pets During Census
Kolkata: The State Animal Resources Development Department is currently conducting a survey regarding pet and domesticated animals for Center’s 21st livestock census.
Apparently, several pet owners in the suburbs of Kolkata are avoiding the census. It is reported that city dwellers are hiding their pets and domesticated animals from the officials, which has led to challenges in conducting the survey efficiently.
The officials note that several pet parents are avoidant and refuse to reveal their pet ownership for fears of additional taxes being imposed on them.
The survey began on Sept 1, 2024, and is usually conducted at 5-year intervals by the centre in all states. The survey covers dogs, cats, and other domesticated animals, and was supposed to be over by December 31, 2024 in Bengal. However, the deadline has been extended until February, said Utpal Kumar Karmakar, MD of West Bengal Livestock Development Corporation.
"We have already started corresponding with local municipal bodies, including Kolkata Municipal Corporation and Bidhannagar Municipal Corporation, about the census," an official of the state animal resources development department said.
AUTHOR’S BIO
Carry My Pet
Passionate pet enthusiasts and globetrotters, dedicated to easing furry friends' journeys worldwide. Penning tales of compassion at CarryMyPet, where every relocation is a tail-wagging adventure.