Ahimsa
ISKCON’s Governing Body Commission (GBC) Resolution 2019 states:
By Janmastami 2022 all ISKCON centers should develop a plan whereby all milk and milk products - butter, ghee, yogurt etc. offered to the deities are procured from protected cows. The centers may approach the International Ministry of Cow Protection for assistance.
Cow protection standards at Haribol
Protection
As per the ISKCON Law 507
Ensure lifelong protection for cows and bulls by conducting daily observations, maintaining records, and using recommended fencing. Care for dying cows and bulls and keep calf mortality rate below 5%. Weekly health checks and barbed wire use in low-pressure areas are permitted.
At HariBol
All cows and bulls are protected for life. Dedicated ashrams ensure proper care & monitoring of bulls and dying cows. Real-time cow health data is integrated on the consumer app using AI /ML technology.
Shelter
As per the ISKCON Law 507
Provide winter and summer shelters with clean water, feed, shade, sunlight, ventilation, dry bedding, and clean feeding conditions. Clean rest areas with rubber bedding are permitted.
At HariBol
In our hearts, cows are revered as beloved family. They find a home with our devoted farmers, fostering a profound bond. Cows become integral to our lives, receiving the love and care they truly deserve, flourishing in a harmonious environment.
Feeding
As per the ISKCON Law 507
Offer pasturing facilities, appropriate diets, water, and vegetarian salt. Supervise feeding and provide sufficient feeding space. Hay or feed supplementation is permitted. Avoid total confinement, feeding slaughter by-products, and careless inclusion of indigestible items.
At HariBol
Our beloved cows revel in spacious pastures grazing to their heart's content - all thoughtfully supervised. Haribol's commitment to 'ahimsa' ensures that no indigestible items find their way to our cows. We take immense pride in providing them with the best care and love they deserve.
Milking
As per the ISKCON Law 507
Train cows for safety, milk by hand, brush them daily, and ensure calf-mother association. Gradual weaning and proper feeding are recommended. Milking by hand and bottle feeding calves are permitted
At HariBol
Calves come first, milking only begins thereafter. and with care. We cherish "matri-sambandha," letting cows bond with calves, practicing gradual weaning and thoughtful feeding. Our gentle, manual milking and tender bottle-feeding embody the spirit of 'karuna' throughout our dairy journey.
Insemination of cows
As per the ISKCON Law 507
Inseminate cows with bulls kept at the farm, maintain proper enclosures, and keep breeding records to avoid inbreeding. Using community or neighbour’s bulls when necessary and artificial insemination in special circumstances are permitted.
At HariBol
Natural mating is our preference, promoting a harmonious environment. Yet, to ensure the prevention of in-breeding, we employ artificial insemination on rare occasions. We prioritize the well-being of our cows through organic and humane practices - the essence of our compassionate approach to dairy farming.
