It is also the second sugar mill in Maharashtra, after Jai Hind Sugar Pvt Limited in Solapur, to achieve the recognition.

The certification is part of Animal Rahat's Sugarcane Industry Mechanization Project, which encourages sugar mills to replace bull-drawn sugarcane carts with mechanised transport such as tractors. The initiative aims to end the use of bulls for hauling heavy sugarcane loads, The Times of India reported.

Kiran Ahuja, Senior Manager of Corporate Projects at PETA India, said the certification recognises sugar mills that have completely stopped using bulls in their operations. He said the move reflects the increasing demand from both Indian and international sugar buyers for fully mechanised and animal-free sugar supply systems, driven by concerns for animal and human welfare.

"Consumers around the world are demanding that bulls should not be made to suffer for the sake of sugar when better, humane alternatives exist. PETA India's bull-free certification empowers sugar buyers to meet the demand for ethically sourced sugar," Ahuja said.

Mahesh Deshmukh, Chairman of Lokmangal Mauli Industries Limited, said the company was proud to receive PETA India's '100% bull-free' certification.

"Our commitment to mechanising sugarcane transport reflects our focus on modernity, efficiency and the belief that technology and growth should benefit everyone, both workers and animals alike," he said.

According to PETA India, bulls used in sugarcane transport often face harsh conditions, including pulling overloaded carts in extreme heat with little rest, food or water. The organisation also alleged that the animals are controlled using nose ropes and sharp tools such as nail-studded spikes and barbed wire.

Earlier this month, Jai Hind Sugar Pvt Limited in Solapur became the first sugar mill in Maharashtra to receive PETA India's '100% bull-free' certification.