Haryana launches a major crackdown on veterinary NSAIDs lethal to vultures, inspecting 113 chemist shops and collecting 93 drug samples for lab testing. Experts warn drugs like diclofenac and nimesulide can kill vultures within 48 hours. BNHS lauds the state’s proactive enforcement as a national model, urging other states to adopt similar measures to safeguard biodiversity.
In a major push for wildlife conservation, the Haryana government has launched a massive enforcement drive to eliminate the sale and use of veterinary painkillers known to be lethal to vultures.
Toxic Drugs Threaten Vultures
The move aims to reverse the catastrophic decline in vulture populations caused by toxic non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) entering the food chain. Vultures and other carrion birds feeding on domestic animals treated with NSAIDs die after suffering damage to their kidneys.
Statewide Chemist Inspections
On January 15, 2026, authorities carried out extensive inspections at wholesale and retail chemist shops across Haryana. The state has deployed inspection teams to 113 wholesale and retail chemist shops, collecting 93 drug samples for urgent laboratory testing.
Laboratory Testing Underway
Authorities confirmed that the samples have been sent to government-approved labs, warning that strict legal action will be initiated under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act if violations are found.
