<h1>Call for science-based, single-window pet food regulations with mandatory BIS standards to protect animal welfare and consumers</h1> An industry summit in New Delhi called for a dedicated, science-based regulatory framework for India's rapidly growing pet food sector. Participants urged creation of a single-window regulatory pathway, with current voluntary Bureau of Indian Standards norms serving as an immediate baseline and evolving into mandatory standards governing ingredients, nutrition, safety, labelling, and claims. Emphasis was placed on evidence-based nutrition, claim substantiation, label transparency, and consumer education, alongside stronger veterinary engagement and One Health alignment. With pet ownership and market value projected to increase sharply, stakeholders stressed that timely regulatory clarity and enforceable standards are essential to protect animal welfare, ensure product quality, and guide responsible industry growth.