Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan may have received brickbats from some quarters including his own colleagues over keeping mid-day meals egg-free, but he has been now bestowed with a special award by leading animal rights group PETA for his healthy decision.
The outfit, which runs campaigns against cruelty to aninmals, described the vegetarian Chief Minister’s
move as compassionate and healthy choice.
“Thanks to Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, anganwadi meals will continue to be served in the State without cruel and cholesterol-laden eggs, a compassionate and healthy choice that has earned the CM a ‘Pragatisheel Award’ from People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India,” a statement issued by the NGO said.
It said Chouhan has been chosen for the honour for taking a progressive stand on anganwadi mid-day meals by keeping them egg-free, which reflects his compassion for animals and concern for public health and will serve as an inspiration for others.
Chouhan, a strict vegetarian himself, had recently shot down a proposal to re-introduce eggs in anganwadi meals, but allowed milk to be served to children and pregnant women at the anganwadi centres in the State.
PETA further said that it encourages compassionate and health-conscious people everywhere to follow the Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan’s example by taking eggs off the menu.
“Mid-day meals in the State include a nutrient and protein-rich mix of vegetables, including, potatoes and greens, as well as lentils, chickpeas and soya,” the release stated, adding the award will be handed over to Chouhan on Friday.