Jaipur, Aug 17 (IANS): Carlsberg India Pvt Ltd, a subsidiary of the world-renowned Danish beer makers Carlsberg Group, has withdrawn its sponsorship of an upcoming elephant polo match, scheduled to be held here, after being informed about the alleged torture of elephants, a top official said Wednesday.

The decision came after People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India told Carlsberg executives how elephants are goaded with metal hooks to behave in a certain manner, said Managing Director of the company, Soren Lauridsen.

These sharp metal hooks, resembling fireplace pokers, are known as ankuses.

PETA sent a letter to the company detailing how captive elephants are trained and disciplined with ankuses.

"They are deprived of everything natural and important to them, including family life. Moreover they are shackled in chains when they're not performing," the letter said.

The elephant polo match is scheduled for Aug 21.