Lok Sabha Secretariat

Maneka Gandhi, born in 1956, is a prominent Indian politician, animal rights activist, and environmentalist. She has served multiple terms as a Member of Parliament in the Lok Sabha and has held various ministerial positions. Her career began alongside her husband, Sanjay Gandhi, and she later became a vocal advocate for animal welfare and environmental protection.

Beyond her political roles, Gandhi is an accomplished author, with several books focusing on topics such as etymology, law, and animal rights. She founded the animal welfare organization People for Animals and has been instrumental in advocating for legislative changes to protect animals. Her activism has led to significant legal and policy shifts in India regarding animal treatment and environmental conservation. Gandhi has also been recognized internationally for her contributions to these causes.

Maneka Gandhi has been an active figure in Indian politics for decades. She first entered public life assisting her husband, Sanjay Gandhi, during the political climate of the Emergency in the 1970s. Following his death, she continued her political career, co-founding the Rashtriya Sanjay Manch party and later joining the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). She has been elected to the Lok Sabha from various constituencies and has served as a Union Minister, holding portfolios such as Environment and Forests, Social Justice and Empowerment, and Women & Child Development. Her political journey has seen her navigate different party affiliations and ministerial roles, reflecting her enduring presence in India's parliamentary landscape.

Gandhi is a prolific author, having written extensively on subjects including etymology, law, and particularly animal rights and names. Her notable works include "The Complete Book of Muslim and Parsi Names" and "The Penguin Book of Hindu Names for Boys," reflecting an interest in nomenclature. However, her most significant literary contributions are linked to her deep commitment to animal welfare. She founded People for Animals, India's largest animal rights organization, and has authored books like "Heads and Tails," which brought attention to animal suffering caused by commercial exploitation. Her advocacy extends to promoting veganism for ethical and health reasons.

As a dedicated environmentalist, Maneka Gandhi has championed numerous causes aimed at protecting wildlife and natural habitats. She has been instrumental in advocating for policies that regulate animal experimentation, ban mobile zoos, and promote the sterilization of stray dogs. Gandhi has also been recognized for her work with international environmental organizations and her efforts to conserve forests. Her activism has often involved public interest litigation, leading to landmark decisions that have influenced animal welfare laws and environmental practices in India. She has received multiple awards for her contributions to environmental protection and animal rights.

“Democracy is based essentially on free debate and open discussion, for that is the only corrective of government action in a democratic setup.”

“we don't need cow killers in India”