Maneka Gandhi is an enviornmentalist, animal activist, vegetarian crusader, author of books from mythology, etymology and law and first aid manuals, columnist, television and radio personality, chairperson of People for Animals and Rugmark which works to free bonded child labour, four times member of Parliament and minister in four Cabinets. Her animal rights programmes on television, 'Heads and Tails' and 'Maneka's Ark' have influenced a whole generation, forming a strong animal welfare movement in India. She has won landmark decisions in environment and animal protection, and passed path-breaking legislations protecting coastal areas and historical buildings, street children and the diabled.