The First Ever “Vegetarian Course” Introduced In Hotel Management In India!

The world is seems like a better place today, since we heard the news about Chandrashekhar R Luniya’s petition to the Prime Minister of India. A Chartered Accountant by profession, Chandrashekhar took a step ahead and got the Hotel Management Institutes to introduce a “Vegetarian Course” for the students who come from vegetarian backgrounds and are often hindered from pursuing the course as cooking meat is a huge part of the Hotel Management industry!

As cited by the CA himself, It all began when his son wanted to pursue Hotel Management, but because he was vegetarian, he felt uncomfortable getting his hands on meat. From that very instance Mr. Chandrashekhar started his research on Institutes who offer Vegetarian options and it came as a shock to him when he couldn’t find even one Institute that offers this course! What about the 30% of the Indians who have never eaten meat and are completely against it?

That’s when he knew he had to bring about a change! He then filed a petition in 2015 directly to the Prime Minister Narendra Modiji along with the Tourism and Human Resources Ministers as well.

He received an overwhelming response from thousands of supporters of the cause. He became adamant and starting writing to the government officials and even some members of parliament. He along with the supporters started postcard and placards campaigning, talking to people to raise awareness and get support.

Members of parliament also wrote to the Prime Minister until it reached the Tourism Minister and he sanctioned the request. The PMO then took the decision and so in July 2016 they started the syllabus for 2017-2018. This course has already been introduced in some Institutes in Gandhi Nagar, Bhopal & Jaipur.  40 students from these 3 institutes chose this course. 18 more Institutes in India are working on the same and will incorporate this course in their academics.

Petitions and letters signed. Image source: Chandrashekhar
 

As quotes by Mr. Chandrashekhar Luniya - “Vegetarians have to take a step back from the bigger businesses in the world, and it is a drawback. Even though I respect all food choices, we cannot disregard Vegetarian, they deserve more options. We need more vegetarian dishes at eateries and more vegetarian restaurants where these students can work. Veganism will follow this after, but first, everyone should have the right to choose.”

This was an Important step that was needed and it was led by, Mr. Chandrashekhar R Luniya with the support of Government and Hospitality IndusteLry.  

In the past we have seen that there have been so many instances where a pure vegetarian was forced to opt for non vegetarian culinary courses and try it because of the love of cooking and obsolete laws which wouldn’t cater to food specific culinary courses.

As vegans we deeply connect with his feelings as we too believe the food we chose ethically shouldn’t be compromised.

We hope that soon “Veganism” would also be a part of this discussion.

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