Milk and milk products are a matter of ahimsa (non-violence) and come with different practices in Jainism.

• General view: Many lay Jains historically used milk and dairy products because they were seen as less directly violent than meat or root vegetables. However, modern Jain thought, especially among ascetics and many lay communities, often discourages or avoids dairy because dairy farming can involve harm to animals. So, practice varies by tradition and guidance from your guru. You can read more here .

• Digambar and Śvetāmbara differences: In strict Das Lakshan (Digambar austerities) and Ayambil/Byasana contexts, many exclude milk and dairy. Some Śvetāmbara sanghs may allow fresh milk or certain dairy items under specific vows, while others restrict or avoid them. Always follow your local guru’s guidance. For a general discussion, see the Dairy-related guidance here and paryushan rules here .

• On specific occasions: In Paryushan and similar vows, some communities permit fresh milk or paneer only if produced with minimal harm and within strict niyams; others avoid all dairy entirely. Details depend on the tradition and the vow you undertake. See guidance on Paryushan rules here .

If you want, tell me your exact tradition (Digambar or Śvetāmbara) and the vows you are observing, and I’ll tailor the guidance to your context.