India’s Economy And The Beef Ban: How Has The 2017 Beef In India Impacted The Local Economy?

The 2017 Beef Ban in India, enacted under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, sought to protect cows based on religious sentiments and claims of promoting agricultural productivity and cultural unity. However, the ban's implications extend far beyond its stated goals, significantly disrupting India's economy. This paper evaluates the ban’s impacts across key areas, including agriculture, the meat and leather industries, dairy production, and public health. Farmers experienced financial strain as cows transitioned from dual-purpose assets to liabilities, exacerbating rural poverty. The meat trade suffered revenue losses and layoffs, with India falling in global beef export rankings. Similarly, the leather industry has suffered from reduced supply, export losses, and rising unemployment, particularly affecting marginalized communities. Dairy production has stagnated as cattle rearing decreased, causing milk prices to rise. Public health has worsened for lower-income populations, as the loss of beef as an affordable protein source has contributed to malnutrition and anaemia. The environment and society have been affected by loose, unproductive cattle. Drawing from a synthesis of secondary sources, this study highlights the broad economic and social ramifications of the Beef Ban, providing critical insights for policymakers regarding the unintended consequences of religiously motivated economic reforms.