A Journey of Compassion: Chandrika Yolmo Lama’s Mission to Save Stray Dogs

In the serene town of Siliguri, West Bengal, Chandrika Yolmo Lama, a former school principal and MPhil in economics, has become a beacon of hope for stray dogs. The 50-year-old, once an educator and wife of Indian Army officer Lt. Col. Lakpa Yolmo Lama, has turned into a full-time animal advocate. Over the past three years, she has rescued and rehabilitated more than 200 strays, driven by unwavering compassion and determination.

Her day starts at 4:30 am when she embarks on an eight-kilometre journey, not as a routine walk, but as a mission to feed and care for every stray she encounters. Chandrika's transition from a career educator to an animal rescuer began two decades ago in Hisar, Haryana, where her first adoption sparked a lifelong dedication to animal welfare.

Challenges and Triumphs: Building a Rescue Centre

As Chandrika’s compassion grew, so did her challenges. Frequent relocations due to her husband's postings meant taking her adopted dogs along, including a 2,500-kilometre journey from Lucknow to Siliguri. Despite resistance from some community members, she persevered, eventually renting a home in Salbari to house her rescues and creating a centre called Indie RTR in July.

Funding remains a challenge, but Chandrika relies on support from family and friends, avoiding cash donations to ensure transparency. Instead, she welcomes contributions of food and essentials.

Community Support and Innovative Solutions

Chandrika’s relentless efforts have inspired others, including Mani Chhetri, a local resident who offered her space for her centre free of charge after witnessing her work. Her mission has also drawn the support of Alok and Shilpa Menon, owners of a local gym, who organized a fundraiser where donations were tied to the number of pull-ups participants completed.

Innovatively, Chandrika introduced QR code collars for rescued dogs, allowing anyone to scan and access their medical history. This ensures continued care and raises awareness of their health needs.

A Vision for a Kinder Future

Employing local women Akriti Subba and Rakhi Gurung, Chandrika has expanded her reach, advocating not just for care, but also for humane treatment. Her efforts align with India's Animal Birth Control Rules, 2023, emphasizing the humane treatment, sterilization, and immunization of strays.

With her dedication, Chandrika urges society to foster compassion. “If you can’t love them, at least don’t hurt them,” she appeals, hoping for a future where animals are treated with the respect they deserve.