NEW DELHI, October 15, 2012 /PRNewswire/ --

Maneka Gandhi has joined a global campaign to ban animal testing for cosmetics launched by Cruelty Free International. Cruelty Free International, which was established on 14^th March 2012, is the first global organization dedicated to ending the use of animals to test cosmetics products throughout the world.

There is no worldwide ban on animal testing for cosmetics. Despite progress with some countries and companies, over 80% of the world, including India, still allows animals to be used in cruel experiments.

Maneka Gandhi, founder of People for Animals said, "The world is looking at India. I want to be able to say that India was among the first in the world to ban tests on animals for beauty products, which is why I am supporting Cruelty Free International's global campaign to end these cruel and outdated tests. Please help save animals from cruel experiments by supporting Cruelty Free International."

People for Animals has partnered with the global animal organization to launch the India Cruelty Free International office. Cruelty Free International is working with governments, regulators, companies and partner organizations worldwide. The ambitious campaign is placing the issue of animal testing on the agenda of many governments for the very first time as part of a global strategy to tackle cosmetics testing on animals.

Michelle Thew, Chief Executive, Cruelty Free International said, "We are thrilled to have the support of Maneka Gandhi and her organization People for Animals, India's leading independent animal organization. Manekais well known for her compassion for animals and her support strengthens our ground breaking campaign to protect animals from suffering for cosmetics in India."

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Contact: Fleur Dawes at media@crueltyfreeinternational.org or +44(0)7850-510-955 or +44(0)207-619-6978