Importance of World Animal Welfare Day
As the name says, world animal day refers to a day dedicated to the animal kingdom. Every year on 4th October is celebrated as world animal welfare day; it is done to celebrate the relation between humans and animals. We all know that animals are an important part of our ecosystem, they not only give support and improve our lives but they also teach human the true meaning of friendship. Therefore, this day allows us to celebrate their existence.
This day is celebrated around the world without any discrimination of religion, caste, colour, beliefs and ideology. This is a special day for those who care for and love these wonderful creations of God. There are many animal welfare organizations, groups, charity and schools that participate in the celebration of the animal welfare day.
Why World Animal Welfare Day is celebrated?
Several places organize commemorative activities and cultural events in various cities by colleges, local government institutions and socio-political institutions. Painting and essay competitions are held on glorifying peace, non-violence and Gandhi’s effort in the Indian Freedom Struggle.
Often, Gandhi’s favourite devotional song, Raghupathi Raghava Rajaram, is sung in memory of him. This holiday is a dry day in India when the sale of alcohol is not permitted.
Since Gandhi Jayanti is a national holiday in India, it is observed across all states and union territories. The President and Prime Minister of India also pay homage at Raj Ghat, a memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi in Delhi, India.
Animals are being slaughtered around the world and to improve the condition and lives of animal around the world this day is celebrated. Various communities, groups, clubs and welfares who are against the brutal behaviour on animals get encouraged. Many people organise events to spread awareness on animal issue and inspire people to protect animals around them.
Throughout history, social movements like World Animal Day have always been a major vehicle for ordinary people’s participation in politics, and key in fighting for social justice and reform. Around the world there have been many successful social movements that challenged injustice and promoted democracy, with ground-breaking laws being passed in response.
This shows that social movements can work when enough momentum and support has been built up. As with all mass actions, the animal welfare movement is made up of members of large organisations, small groups or individuals and the people involved are from all walks of life. People who have made the decision to use their time, talents and resources to help make the world a better place for animals, the people who care for them and the wider communities in which they live.
The lives of animals are profoundly affected by the actions of individuals, businesses and nations. It’s therefore essential that, as sentient beings, their rightful status as recipients of social justice is established and translated into effective animal protection. There is no doubt that increased awareness of animal issues via the availability of accurate information, combined with better education for both adults and children, is helping to develop a compassionate culture which is slowly feeding into legal reform and social progress.
As you will know, there are other days linked to animals such as World Farmed Animals Day, World Day for Laboratory Animals, World Wildlife Day, etc., and these are important too. However, World Animal Day is the one day of the year that embraces all animals and the unique concerns of each, in every country.