A public action reveals the hidden impact of milk on animals and the planet
New Delhi- Marking Earth Day, activists from the Animal Climate and Health Save Foundation (Animal Save India), along with World Vegan Vision, organised a public demonstration in New Delhi to bring attention to the often-overlooked environmental and ethical impacts of dairy consumption.
The action involved a sequence of activists holding placards that collectively illustrated the reality behind 1 litre of milk:
* A calf separated from its mother soon after birth
* Repeated and forced impregnation
* Slaughter when milk production declines
* A significant environmental burden
Through this striking visual, the demonstration aimed to shift the perception of milk from an everyday staple to a product tied to systemic animal exploitation and environmental strain, including excessive water use, methane emissions, and pollution.
Kundan, Student Activist (7th Class), said:
“When we found out where milk actually comes from, it felt wrong. If it’s hurting animals and the planet, we should try to change that.”
Anjali, Student Activist (11th Class), said:
“We always talk about saving the Earth in school. I feel like what we eat every day is also a big part of that.”
Aprajita Ashish, Director – Animal Climate and Health Save Foundation (Animal Save India) and World Vegan Vision, said:
“Milk is so normal in our lives that we don’t question it. But once you see the full picture, it’s hard to ignore.”
Narhari Gupta, National Coordinator, Animal Save India, added:
“Earth Day is a reminder that our daily habits matter. Food choices, especially, can make a real difference.”
Sheena Dawar, Activist, Animal Save India, said:
“Helping the planet doesn’t have to be complicated. We can simply start with what we put on our plates. Shifting towards plant based foods can make a real difference.”
The demonstration prompted direct and honest reactions from the public. Many people said they had never connected milk with animal suffering or environmental impact before, and were taken aback by the information. Some openly questioned their daily consumption, while a few expressed discomfort after learning about calf separation and repeated impregnation. Notably, several attendees took a pledge to reduce or give up dairy, with some committing to try a vegan lifestyle going forward.
The organisations reiterated that meaningful climate action begins with rethinking daily consumption, and urged people to explore plant-based choices as an accessible and effective solution for a healthier planet.
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About Animal Climate and Health Save Foundation (Animal Save India):
Animal Climate and Health Save Foundation is an India-based non-profit working at the intersection of animal justice, public health, and climate action, engaging citizens, institutions, and policymakers through awareness campaigns, outreach, and advocacy.
