Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announces a new policy to keep retired police dogs with their handlers for life. Under the plan, dogs serve in active duty for 10 years and then retire, but they remain part of the police family and continue living with the handlers they worked with.
Fadnavis says the decision is meant to address welfare concerns after separation, including reported mental stress and refusal to eat in some cases. The state Home Department is set to fund their living and medical expenses, so the dogs do not face hardship after retirement. Sources note that previously retired police dogs were sometimes adopted out, and that can affect well-being, prompting the change.
Outlets broadly agree on the core elements: lifetime placement with handlers, a 10-year service threshold, and state coverage of costs. The reporting differs mainly in emphasis—some focus on the compassionate intent and emotional comfort, while others specifically highlight mental well-being concerns and the financial responsibility of the Home Department.
