Bhutan joined the global community, today, in observing World Vegetarian Day. This year’s celebration focused on the theme “Mindful Eating, Mindful Me”, with special attention on child nutrition. Recognising the importance of cultivating healthy and mindful eating habits from an early age, children and caregivers in Early Childhood Care and Development Centres in Thimphu were taught the benefits of eating plant-based food in the build up to the day.
Duedroi Rangwang Zhidey Tshogpa also known as Animal Rights and Welfare Association organised the event in collaboration with the Bhutan Early Childhood Education Development Association in Thimphu.
By promoting mindful eating among children, the organisers believe Bhutan can foster a healthier generation while preserving the environment and respecting all forms of life.
The organisers say they plan to expand mindful eating initiative to more ECCD centres across the country to tackle increasing junk food and meat consumption habits among families.
Yeshey Dorji, the regional coordinator of the Bhutan Early Childhood Education and Development Association said,“It has become very important to educate children about eating habits. It is because consuming imported junk foods have become common and this leads to nutrient deficiency in children.”
Gyembo Dorji, a participant said, “After participating in the celebration today, I learnt what people need to be aware of and the challenges that need to be solved. So, the day also serves as a platform to make people aware of the benefits of shifting to a plant-based diet.”
Kinley Kuenzang, the officiating executive director, Duedroi Rangwang Zhidhey Tshogpa said, “We have covered all the ECCDs in Thimphu. However, there many ECCDs in other districts interested in the programme and inquired us about it. So, hoping that we can cover all the 20 districts, we are preparing accordingly.”
During the event, ECCDs and children were awarded certificates of appreciation for promoting vegetarianism and mindful eating practices.
The Duedroi Rangwang Zhidhey Tshogpa comprises over 10,000 members from across the country and abroad. The civil society organisation, which began as a WeChat group in 2015 advocates for plant-based diets over meat consumption in an effort to save the lives of animals.
Kelzang Chhophyel
Edited by Phub Gyem
