As we bid farewell to 2023, we reflect on a year filled with triumphs, challenges, and unwavering dedication to farmed animals. Thanks to your kindness and courage, we have driven real and lasting change for farmed animals in India. Let’s take a look at the remarkable progress we made together.
Encouraging State Bans on Cruel Gestation Crates
Building on the previous year’s momentum, we successfully persuaded six more states to implement bans on cruel gestation crates used to confine mother pigs. Telangana, Odisha, Maharashtra, Jharkhand, Bihar, and Assam have joined the movement, sparing an estimated 1.5 million mother pigs a life of confinement in cages so small they cannot even turn around.
But our work is far from over. We are now calling on the authorities to prohibit the manufacture, sale, and use of gestation and farrowing crates across India. To amplify our message, we teamed up with influencer Farah Amber, who shares our commitment to a future where animals are no longer trapped in the food system.
Empowering the Movement
We organised our first-ever volunteer event in Assam, partnering with Street Animal Welfare to screen the documentary Maa Ka Doodh at plant-based cafe Lush in Guwahati. Ahead of International Animal Rights Day, Mercy For Animals volunteers dressed as prisoners donned animal masks and held placards to emphasise the five essential freedoms for animals. And at Asia Farm Animal Day, several Mercy For Animals team members led sessions, including our president, Leah Garcés.
Spurring Action for Cows
On World Milk Day, Mercy For Animals volunteers met with Dehradun Cantonment assembly member Savita Kapoor to discuss the dire conditions and cruel practices in dairy farms. The meeting was fruitful, and Smt. Kapoor pledged to raise the issue with the proper authorities, a testament to the power of our collective efforts.
Collaborating for Compassion
We joined forces with more activists, influencers, and celebrities to raise funds and awareness for animals. In November we collaborated with Meat Less Meet More, led by actor and influencer Amy Aela and climate activist Shreya Godawat, for a sold-out fundraising event supporting Mercy For Animals India. Guests enjoyed delicious food and great company in a beautiful setting. Eze Perfumes also joined the cause, distributing vegan fragrances and pledging support to Mercy For Animals India and other animal protection groups.
Sending a Message for Earth Day and Beyond
Mercy For Animals’ global Earth Day campaign engaged more than 70 chefs and influencers worldwide. The India team published eye-catching content on social media and sent a letter to the prime minister encouraging promotion of plant-based food to help curb pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. For Diwali, we shared delicious plant-based dishes from each state in India.
Spreading Compassion Through Media and Events
Our pro-animal social media content surpassed 11 million impressions, and our videos garnered nearly one million views. We also participated in the YVCare Earth Festival in Mumbai, promoting compassion for animals and showcasing the power of kinder food choices.
As we move into 2024, we will continue to build a movement that is stronger and more resilient than ever. Together, we can create a future where animals are no longer forced to suffer and compassion prevails.
Thank you for your unwavering support in making 2023 a pivotal year for animals.
