The Indian government has asked its citizens to hug cows on Valentine's Day, writes HuffPost. According to the authorities, this will promote Hindu values.

The initiative was authored by India's State Department of Animal Welfare. According to officials, cow hugs will bring emotional richness and increase both individual and collective happiness among the population. Religious Indians, who worship cows as sacred animals, are pleased with the proposal.

In recent years, members of Hinduism have raided Valentine's Day themed stores in Indian cities, burned love cards and gifts, and kicked couples out of restaurants. According to activists, the holiday corrupts society and runs counter to traditional Indian values.