New Delhi, August 20, 2025: Indian Immunologicals Limited (IIL), a subsidiary of the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) and the world’s largest manufacturer of rabies vaccines, has pledged 5 lakh doses of veterinary anti-rabies vaccines under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme. The vaccines will be used to immunize free-roaming dogs across India as part of efforts to support the country’s One Health mission.
With a strong portfolio of animal and human vaccines, IIL is the single largest contributor to India’s self-sufficiency in vaccine production. The company currently holds a 70% market share in the animal anti-rabies vaccine trade and 41% in the human anti-rabies vaccine market. It was also the first in India to produce a safer Vero cell-based anti-rabies vaccine for human use. Beyond meeting domestic needs, IIL exports vaccines to over 50 countries, particularly in the developing world.
Highlighting the importance of systematic vaccination, Dr. K Anand Kumar, Managing Director, Indian Immunologicals Ltd, said: “It is important to create awareness among the general public about avoiding human-animal conflict for peaceful coexistence. Systematic vaccination of all dogs whether it be free roaming or a pet is necessary for comprehensive control of rabies. Several countries have eliminated rabies through a multi-pronged approach.”
In addition to this national drive, IIL has supported local rabies control programmes such as the “Rabies Free Thiruvananthapuram” initiative in Kerala, which has shown encouraging results. The company also provides one lakh free doses of rabies vaccines annually on World Zoonosis Day and World Rabies Day, and runs a “Fearless Against Rabies” campaign on social media to raise awareness that rabies is 100% preventable with proper vaccination.
According to IIL, vaccination remains the most cost-effective tool in combating diseases, and the company’s nationwide distribution network ensures the accessibility and affordability of its products.