Pune, MAHARASHTRA\—Animal protection organization Humane World for Animals India (formerly called Humane Society International/India), in collaboration with EduGrown, hosted Pune’s first-ever roundtable on plant-based meals in schools and colleges. The June 18th gathering, held at Dnyaan Prasad Global University (DPGU), brought together principals and decision-makers from more than 30 institutions including but not limited to the Ashwini International School, the Mastermind Global School, the ICI School, the Orchid School and the Dr. DY Patil School. The Physicians Association for Nutrition (PAN) India, participated as well, with presentations on balanced nutrition, dietary planning for adolescents and the long-term health benefits associated with plant-based eating.
Discussions also covered topics like the adverse impacts of animal agriculture, factory farming conditions in India, environmental sustainability concerns, adolescent development, and animal welfare. The roundtable produced both practical insights and actionable steps for educational institutions engaged in efforts to reduce the suffering of farm animals kept and killed for food through plant-based menus devised with an eye toward a more humane and sustainable future for the planet. Participants also enjoyed a tasting session featuring a range of plant-based alternatives.
Shikha Jain, manager of the farm animal protection team at Humane World for Animals India, said: “Schools and colleges shape not just education, but the everyday habits that last a lifetime. Students spend one-third of their time in schools and colleges, and these institutions can influence students’ food choices in a significant way. We're proud to bring leaders together to explore how plant-based meals can improve student health, advance environmental sustainability, and build a deeper understanding of how our choices shape the world and the fate of both humans and animals. Around the world, institutions are recognizing that food choices are central to building a healthier, more humane and sustainable future. Introducing plant-based meals in educational institutions is about expanding access to nutritious and future-forward food choices for students. By doing so, schools can help nurture a generation that understands the far-reaching impact of what’s on their plate.”
Dr. Somnath P. Patil, pro chancellor of Dnyaan Prasad Global University by Dr. D. Y. Patil Unitech Society, Pune, said: “Educational institutions play an important role in shaping both academic growth and the values and habits that students carry throughout their lives. As discussions about health, sustainability, and responsible living increase, it is crucial to create opportunities for meaningful dialogue and awareness. Initiatives that promote informed food choices can help students understand the link between personal well-being, environmental responsibility, and social impact. It is encouraging to see educators and stakeholders work together to explore practical approaches that lead to a healthier and more sustainable future.”
Facts:
- Humane World for Animals India has been working with educational institutions and food-service providers across the country to encourage the inclusion of plant-based food options in institutional meal programs. Thus far, 15 educational institutions and 10 hotels and cafes have collaborated with us to make this happen.
- Research shows that plant-based diets can help reduce environmental strains and effects associated with food production. Food systems account for more than one-third of global greenhouse gas emissions, with animal agriculture a significant contributor.
- Healthy plant-based food is associated with reduced risk for Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, cancer, and premature death.
- Worldwide, schools, universities and other institutions are increasingly exploring plant-forward menus as part of climate action and public health initiatives. In India, schools and colleges including Roots International School, Lexicon MILE Institute of Hotel Management, Shri Ramswaroop Memorial University and Avichi Institute of Arts and Science have embraced plant-based commitments.
- India has also witnessed abroad and growing interest in plant-based eating, driven by increasing awareness of health, sustainability, and ethical food choices.
- Humane World for Animals India has successfully transformed 27,00,000 meals by making them more planet-friendly.
Globally, Humane World for Animals works with government institutions, universities, schools, hospitals, corporate cafeterias and food service companies to help the shift towards a more plant-forward, climate-friendly global food system. We also advocate for public policy to scale up plant-based programs and initiatives and support innovation and entrepreneurship in the alternative protein space. We are driving this change around the world including in the United Kingdom, South Africa, the United States, Canada, Brazil, Mexico, Southeast Asia, as well as in India. In addition, we work globally to improve the welfare of farmed animals and end their intensive cage confinement.
