The Animal Welfare Awareness Seminar was conducted on 24th February 2026 at 10:00 a.m. in Mellano Hall, St. Albert’s College, Ernakulam. The programme was jointly organised by the Kerala State Animal Husbandry Department and Department of Zoology, as part of spreading scientific awareness on animal welfare and humane practices. The programme was compered by Mr. Deepak, Ms. Neeraja, and Ms. Gayathri Chandana. The seminar commenced with a prayer rendered by Ms. Anna Shibu and Mr. Charudath. The Welcome Address was delivered by Dr. K. Jijesh Kumar, Chief Veterinary Officer, District Veterinary Centre, Ernakulam, who highlighted the historical, psychological, ethical and legal perspectives of animal welfare. The Presidential Address was delivered by Dr. Sajikumar G., District Animal Husbandry Officer, Ernakulam, who stressed the importance of promoting scientific animal welfare practices and extending awareness among students, veterinarians, animal welfare activists and pet caregivers. The programme was formally inaugurated by Rev. Fr. (Dr.) Antony Thoppil, Chairman & Manager, who also delivered the inaugural Address. In his address, he underlined the moral responsibility of society in ensuring the welfare and rights of animals. The Principal’s Address was delivered by Vice Principal Dr. Retina I Cleetus, on behalf of the Principal, in his absence, who appreciated the initiative and encouraged students to develop empathy and scientific awareness regarding animal welfare. As part of the programme, the District best animal welfare worker award was presented by Rev. Fr. (Dr.) Antony Thoppil to Mr. Mukesh Jain , recognizing outstanding contributions in the field of animal welfare. The official vote of thanks was proposed by Dr. Amritalakshmi K. U., Veterinary Surgeon, RCL, Ernakulam, who expressed gratitude to all dignitaries, speakers, organisers and participants for their valuable presence and cooperation. The seminar sessions commenced at 11:00 a.m. Dr. Ajith Kumar S. (Retd. Senior Veterinary Surgeon, Govt. Veterinary Polyclinic, Muvattupuzha) handled the first session on the topic “Animal Welfare: The Mirror of Human Evolution”. The session elaborated on how humane treatment of animals reflects human moral and social development. Dr. Tittu Abraham (Avian & Exotic Veterinary Specialist) delivered the second session on “The Role of Animal Welfare in Pet Care.” He discussed responsible pet ownership and scientific approaches in caring for companion animals. Dr. P. A. Saira (Senior Veterinary Surgeon, District Veterinary Centre, Kottayam) engaged the participants with a session on “Laws for Animal Welfare”. The session provided insights into legal frameworks governing animal protection in India. The programme ended successfully with active participation and meaningful academic interaction.