Ahimsak Eco-Vegan Committee

Ahimsak Eco-Vegan

MAIN OBJECTIVES

To advocate for the universal embrace of Jain principles of non-violence (Ahimsa), leading to a compassionate and sustainable society that respects and honors the sanctity of all life forms and the environment.
To promote awareness and adoption of veganism and environmental sustainability as expressions of Jain ethical principles, fostering compassionate action within and beyond the Jain community.

Global Jain Community: Future generations benefit through increased awareness and practice of sustainable, compassionate living.
Animals: Animals gain from reduced exploitation and suffering due to advocacy for veganism.
Environment and Wider Society: The broader environment and global society benefit from the promotion of eco-friendly and sustainable practices.

How AEVC Helps JAINA: Provides JAINA with the framework to lead, educate, and empower the Jain community towards a sustainable and compassionate future.
Measurable Outcomes: Reduced consumption of dairy and animal products within Jain institutions, development of resources, reduction of community’s carbon footprint.
Community Impact: A cultural shift within the Jain diaspora towards ethical living, decreased carbon footprint, and improved animal welfare.

JAINA Vegan Paryushan Cookbook
- A 167-Page Cookbook with Paryushan-friendly vegan recipes sourced by the global Jain community
- 7.9K virtual downloads, ~290K people reached on social media across 16 countries, +100 “Give Up Dairy” Pachkhans
2022 YJA Convention in Dallas goes fully vegan
- 775 Jains served fully Jain vegan food over a 4-day weekend
Cohosted the 2023 Vegan Ahimsa Conference: Jain Voices in Animal Advocacy
- Organized 19 virtual sessions across 2 days
Digitalized Rainbow Food on the Vegan Palate by Pramodaben Chitrabhanu and electronically distributed across North America
Launch of 2 Academic Courses with Arihanta Institute
- “Beyond Vegetarianism: Jain Veganism and Ahimsa in a Changing World”
- “Reimagining Sustainability: Jain Environmental Advocacy”
Hosted 14 Jain Vegan Meetups in Major Cities
- Major cities include New York City, Toronto, Mumbai, Bangalore, and London

2024 – 2025 GOALS

GOAL 1: Develop educational resources and workshops, reaching 2,000 Jains to support a healthy and Ahimsak transition.
GOAL 2: Collaborate with 1-3 Jain derasars to implement eco-vegan initiatives towards eliminating dairy use in rituals and food offerings.
GOAL 3: Support Jain households in their commitment to a fully vegan lifestyle in alignment with Jain values (food, clothing, activities).

SUPPORT NEEDED FROM JAINA

Committee Representation in 2025 JAINA Convention Planning: Ensure that AEVC has representation in the 2025 JAINA Convention planning.
Promotion & Use of Communication Channels: Promote Ahimsak Eco-Vegan initiatives and resource distribution through JAINA communication channels.
Derasar Leadership Engagement: Identify and collaborate with derasar leaders for phased integration of vegan choices.