Sumit Sharma

Meat consumption is prevalent in India, with approximately 80% of the population consuming meat at least occasionally. The perception of a predominantly vegetarian India is a common myth, driven by the social and political influence of vegetarian elites, as food habits are deeply influenced by religion, caste, regional traditions, and economic factors.

Are most people in India not vegetarian? Is this true?

Currently, it’s largely true that most people in India are not vegetarian, despite the common perception, with surveys like the National Family Health Survey (NFHS) showing 70-80% or more consuming meat, fish, or poultry, though frequency varies, with less than 10% eating it daily, but a majority weekly or occasionally.