Giving Voice to the Voiceless: How Nitu Rathi Transformed Animal Rescue in Gurugram

Growing up in the quaint village of Sisar Khas, Rohtak, where my father toiled as a farmer, I was surrounded by fields and farm animals. Our family always had a soft spot for animals, with cows taking up a significant part of our household. It was this environment that nurtured my deep affection for all creatures, big and small. Despite earning a diploma in mechanical engineering and working with ICAT for a time, my heart was always with the voiceless beings that needed care and compassion. Even as a vegan, I realized that not everyone shared this empathy, but it became my life's mission to change that narrative.

Embarking on a social mission is never easy, and my journey was no exception. When I founded Bezubano Ki Jaan, a non-profit dedicated to animal rescue, the challenges were manifold. People often questioned my motives, suspecting financial gain in a world where animal welfare is often overlooked or dismissed. Running a pizza cart in sectors 12 and 44 to support my livelihood and fund the rescues, I often found myself stretched thin. The lack of financial resources made rescuing animals and transporting them in ambulances an uphill battle. The societal support was limited, and more often than not, I was met with indifference when our animal ambulance sirens wailed through the streets.

However, persistence bore fruit over time. Although there was no single turning point, the consistent and transparent work I did gradually caught the attention of the younger generation. They saw that the work wasn't about money, but about making a real difference, and they began to rally around our cause. This grassroots support became our strength. By documenting our rescues—whether it was dogs, cows, monkeys, or peacocks—and sharing these stories, awareness grew. People started to understand and even participate, spreading the message further.

With increased awareness came more structured efforts. We established a shelter home in our village for rescued animals, where they receive care until they can be released back to their habitats. Our efforts have grown, with a team of 60 volunteers and eight salaried staff members dedicated to the cause. We've managed to rescue over 31,000 animals so far, a testament to the power of community and compassion. Despite occasional recognition from social organizations, government support remains elusive. Yet, our commitment never wavers; we continue collaborating with organizations like PETA, hoping for more substantial institutional support.

Today, Bezubano Ki Jaan stands as a beacon of hope and a model of what dedicated individuals can achieve for animal welfare. Our work has created ripples of change, inspiring others to show kindness to animals often ignored. Our rescues receive treatment from private hospitals, ensuring they get the best care possible. We have demonstrated that with collective effort, significant change is possible, and every life, no matter how small, is worth saving.

To anyone facing similar struggles, I implore: just as we have hospitals for people, there should be facilities dedicated to the care of animals. Every living being deserves compassion, yet too many are ignored. It's crucial to instill in our children the value of empathy toward all life forms. Letting our work speak for the silent, and nurturing a spirit of kindness, we can build a more compassionate world for all creatures.