Of vanishing trees and water bodies

Of vanishing trees and water bodies
Deccan Herald

Standards in veterinary services and animal welfare are lacking in India. There’s a need for community participation in safeguarding our flora and fauna, said former Union Home Minister and Chairperson of People for Animals (PFA) Maneka Gandhi in Bangalore on Friday.

Speaking to media persons on the occasion of the 10th anniversary celebrations of PFA, Bangalore, she said, though India is far ahead in animal welfare than West Asia and South East Asian countries, a lot still needs to be done to protect the environment and animals. “In India around 50 per cent of the people are vegetarians whereas in these countries there’s no concept of animal welfare. They eat what they get,” said Ms Gandhi.

“PFA is an important part of Bangalore. It has a wide network of volunteers, who selflessly work to save injured and sick animals. Bangaloreans can contribute by either volunteering or supporting it with funds,” she added.


Ms Gandhi rued the fact that while trees are being hacked in the name of development, there’s no move to regenerate the lost forest cover. “Encroachment and pollution are playing havoc on animals. Over use of pesticides is destroying the environment. What is worsening their plight is that water resources are getting secluded for human consumption,” she added.

The former minister said that networking of animal welfare centres is important.

Later in the evening, eminent Santoor maestro Rahul Sharma regaled the audience with his performance - ‘Maya - The Illusion’, a fusion of soulful, classical music at the Chowdaiah Memorial Hall. The event was a fund-raiser for PFA.