Hyderabad: GHMC Commissioner RV Karnan on Sunday called on citizens to adopt desi puppies and treat them as family, stressing the importance of compassion and responsibility during the Indy Puppy Mela held at Jalagam Vengalrao Park.
Inaugurating the event with Khairatabad Zonal Commissioner Anurag Jayanthi, Karnan said adopting street-born Indian dogs not only saves lives but also builds a culture of empathy in the city. “Be a hero. Adopt, don’t shop,” was the central message of the campaign.
The adoption drive featured dozens of healthy, vaccinated, and dewormed indie puppies, drawing enthusiastic crowds from across Hyderabad. Karnan personally handed over the first adopted pup to CH Sai of Kukatpally, encouraging others to follow suit.
Commending the new pet parents, Karnan thanked them for opening their homes and hearts. “These dogs are loyal, intelligent, and perfectly suited to our environment,” he said.
GHMC Chief Veterinary Officer Abdul Vakeel and other officials joined the event to support the adoption initiative. The mela underscored GHMC’s ongoing efforts to promote animal welfare and reduce street dog populations through humane, community-driven solutions.