Ashoka was the first ruler in noted history to advocate conservation measures for wildlife

Many historians consider Ashoka to be the first emperor in recorded history to push for wildlife conservation. Following his conversion to Buddhism, he practiced "Ahimsa," or nonviolence, by abstaining from royal hunting and animal sacrifices. He is believed to have regulated animal slaughter in the royal kitchen (Rock Edict 1), limiting the number of animals slain daily to two peacocks and a deer, and even these animals were not to be murdered in the future. Female goats, sheep, and pigs who were nursing their young were forbidden to be killed by Ashoka. Young animals, fish, and birds were also restricted from being slaughtered. In addition, Ashoka went on to build free veterinary hospitals and dispensaries in Pataliputra. Even today's most progressive modern states cannot duplicate this feat.

In his edict, Ashoka promises to look after his people as if they were his children and assures his neighbors that they need not fear him because he will only employ persuasion rather than violence. To persuade others, you must use force. Ashoka stated that he provided people with shade and fruit trees, as well as medical care for people and animals.

His concern for creatures is seen in the prohibitions on living sacrifices and sport hunting, as well as the need that all other creatures, including servants, be treated with respect. Ashoka asked his people to become vegans and to prohibit the burning of woods or agricultural debris that might contain wildlife.