is it necessary to feed pigeons in the jain religion
No. Jainism does not make feeding pigeons (or any birds) a religious obligation. The principle of ahimsa (non-violence) encourages kindness to all living beings, but there is no scriptural mandate that one must feed pigeons.
What Jainism teaches about this:
- Feeding animals is a charitable, compassionate act that can express ahimsa, but it is voluntary, not required.
- One should ensure that feeding does not cause harm, dependence, or nuisance (e.g., crowding, competition for food, or spread of disease).
- Attitudes and practices may vary by community (Digambar vs. Shwetambar), but neither tradition prescribes mandatory pigeon feeding.
In short: feeding pigeons is a benevolent, optional act compatible with Jain values, not a essential duty.