The Animal Care Organization (TACO) marked a significant milestone today, celebrating two years of unwavering dedication towards animal welfare across India. Established in 2022 by the Anil Agarwal Foundation (AAF), Vedanta Ltd’s social impact arm, TACO operates on six core pillars: shelter, hospital, academy, wildlife conservation, disaster relief efforts and sector development.
Within just two years, TACO’s dedication has demonstrably transformed India’s animal welfare landscape. Over 60,135 animals have directly benefited from their interventions. This impact is visible at the Foundation’s shelter in Faridabad, which has become a sanctuary for over 160 rescued animals.
Reflecting on TACO’s journey, Ms. Priya Agarwal Hebbar, Anchor, TACO, Chairperson, Hindustan Zinc Ltd and Non-Executive Director, Vedanta Ltd, said, “At TACO, we believe in the inherent value of all living beings and the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health.
TACO recognizes that creating a lasting impact on animal welfare requires a shift in societal attitudes. To achieve this, they have actively engaged with communities in Delhi-NCR. Through various awareness campaigns and workshops, they’ve addressed responsible and compassionate treatment of animals, advocated for responsible pet guardianship, and encouraged community participation in animal welfare initiatives.
Acknowledging the critical need for accessible veterinary services in urban areas, TACO is strategically extending its reach. Recognizing the fast pace of city life, they have introduced veterinary ambulance services, ensuring animals in distress receive timely medical intervention. The organization also plans to deploy a Mobile Health Van soon in Delhi-NCR.
TACO’s commitment extends to emergency situations as well. During the Delhi Floods of 2023, TACO mounted extensive relief and rescue efforts, saving the lives of countless animals. Their swift response with boats and specialized rescue teams ensured that even animals stranded in remote areas were not left behind.
