New Delhi: The Animal Welfare Board of India on Friday, February 10, said it has withdrawn the appeal to celebrate February 14 as 'Cow Hug Day' amid widespread ridicule on social media.

The Board, which falls under the Union Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, had earlier said the day should celebrate cows and how they form the backbone of India’s society and economy.

Govt’s Animal Welfare Board Withdraws Appeal to Celebrate February 14 as ‘Cow Hug Day'

The Board's secretary S.K. Dutta issued a notice saying, "As directed by the Competent Authority and Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandary and Dairying the appeal issued by the Animal Welfare Board of India for celebration of Cow Hug Day on 14th February, 2023 stands withdrawn."

February 14 is celebrated as Valentine's Day, however, people associated with the Sangh parivar outfits have been known to harass couples in India celebrating the day, saying the day is influenced by "western culture".

On February 9, Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying Parshottam Rupala said it will be good if people respond positively to the call given by the Board to celebrate February 14 as 'Cow Hug Day'.

Rupala had said that not much should be read into the choice of February 14 as a date for this purpose.

"This country has an age-old tradition of worshipping the cow and it is a matter of great happiness that people embrace the cow It is good if people respond positively to our appeal," PTI reported him as saying.

After the announcement, social media was flooded with 'Cow Hug Day' memes.

A Twitter user said, "Likely to be lonely on Valentine's Day? The government of India advises you to hug a cow. You can 'decolonise' in the same swift movement. Cow Hug Day, 14th February. Unclear whether bovine consent is required but you'll find out, no doubt."

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