Mark February 14 as ‘Cow Hug Day’: Govt body

NEW DELHI: The Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI), a statutory advisory body on animal welfare laws, has appealed to cow lovers in the country to celebrate February 14 as ‘Cow Hug Day’ — it coincides with the Valentine’s Day — noting that Vedic traditions are almost on the verge of extinction because of western culture over time.

The appeal, signed by AWBI secretary SK Dutta, said it was issued with the approval of a “competent authority” and “on the direction of the Union ministry of fisheries, animal husbandry and dairying”.

The Board, established in 1962 under Section 4 of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, provides grants to animal welfare organisations and advises the Centre on animal welfare issues. Such an appeal was, however, issued by it for the first time.

Confirming this to TOI, AWBI assistant secretary Prachi Jain said: “It’s just an appeal to cow lovers. We have not planned any special event around it on the occasion due to paucity of time this year. But the Board may plan some events from next year onwards.”


The Board in its appeal said, “We all know that the cow is the backbone of Indian culture and rural economy, sustains our life, represents cattle wealth and biodiversity. It is known as ‘Kamdhenu' and ‘Gaumata’ because of its nourishing nature like mother, the giver of all-providing riches to humanity.”

“Vedic traditions are almost on the verge of extinction due to the progress of 'West' culture over time. The dazzle of western civilization has made our physical culture and heritage almost forgotten,” the appeal added.