October 4 is observed annually as World Animal Welfare Day. This day is also meant to create awareness of the protection and care, as well as respect for animals. People celebrate this day by highlighting the significance of animal welfare and promoting humane treatment of animals.
In India, the day also focuses on the cultural and economic significance of cows, which are sacred animals in most communities. Yoga guru Baba Ramdev has talked about the significance of cows and the benefits they have for human life. He mentioned, “Cows bless us with Cow’s Dung, Cow’s Urine, Cow’s Milk, Curd & Ghee for a healthy, wealthy & prosperous nation.”
Cow’s milk, curd, and ghee are nutritious. They constitute the bulk of the Indian diet. They help to improve immunity, digestion, and supply vitamins and minerals.
Cows bless us with Cow’s Dung, Cow’s Urine, Cow’s Milk, Curd & Ghee for a healthy, wealthy & prosperous nation pic.x.com/21OB5CPywv
— स्वामी रामदेव (@yogrishiramdev) October 20, 2017
These are also consumed as a part of routine cooking, religious rituals. In addition, they are a part of festivities in most Indian households.
Cow dung and cow urine also have traditional applications in India. Cow dung extensively is utilized as fuel, fertilizer, and even for organic cultivation. It makes the soil healthy, in addition to lessening the use of chemical fertilizers.
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Cow urine finds application in certain Ayurvedic medications and conventional health treatments. Such practices, according to Ramdev, lead to a “healthy, wealthy & prosperous nation,” linking animal welfare with human well-being and sustainability.
Animal welfare professionals indicate that taking care of cows and other animals involves a way lot more than consuming their products. This involves giving them food, water, shelter, and medical attention. Maintaining good living conditions for the cows can also contribute to better milk and dairy product quality.
Most NGOs and organizations in India commemorate the day through awareness campaigns. They also conduct vaccination drives, and animal adoption programs. They also raise issues such as animal cruelty, abandonment, and illegal trade.
Schools, colleges, and communities organize events that make children learn about the need to be compassionate towards animals.