Cow protection crucial to push rural economy: Dhami

CM inaugurates modern Kamdhenulok Gaushala in Haridwar
my uttarakhand news Bureau
Haridwar, 12 Nov: Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami today inaugurated a modern Kamdhenulok Gaushala at Sapt Rishi in Haridwar and said cow protection is not only an integral part of India’s faith and culture but also an important means of strengthening the rural economy. Appreciating the work of Krishnaayan Desi Gaurakshashala in the fields of cow welfare, cattle conservation and humanitarian service, he felt that initiatives such as Kamdhenulok would play a significant role in preserving Indian culture, protecting the environment and creating sustainable livelihood opportunities in rural areas.
The CM observed that cows hold a special place in Indian culture and Sanatan traditions and continue to be treated as members of the family in many villages. He said cow service is not merely a matter of religious faith but forms an important part of the country’s cultural heritage, social life and rural economy. He added that cow conservation can contribute significantly to environmental protection, natural farming and rural livelihoods.
Stressing on the initiatives related to the indigenous Badri cow, Dhami said that dedicated growth centres have been established to promote pure Badri cow ghee and other dairy products. Three such growth centres are operational in Chamoli district alone. He said these efforts are creating better opportunities for livestock rearers while encouraging dairy production and self-employment in the hill regions.
Referring to the journey of Krishnaayan Desi Gaurakshashala, Dhami reminded that the initiative began in 2010 with the protection of just 11 cattle and has now expanded considerably. According to information shared by the organisation, more than 35,000 cattle are currently being cared for through over 15 gaushalas across five states. In Haridwar alone, thousands of abandoned, injured, aged and sick cattle, including a large number of Nandis, are being provided lifelong shelter.
He said the organisation has also undertaken notable humanitarian work. Through its five hydraulic cattle-service ambulances, more than 5,000 cattle have been rescued and shifted to safe shelters. Besides ensuring proper treatment and nutrition for cattle, the organisation serves meals to more than 1,500 needy people every day and provides ration and medical assistance to underprivileged families.
The CM said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, continuous efforts are being made to promote cow conservation, indigenous breeds and natural farming. He said the state government is committed to modernising gaushalas, caring for abandoned cattle and promoting cattle-based livelihoods. Special emphasis is being laid on strengthening rural families, particularly women, through animal husbandry.
Dhami also shared that more than 16,000 abandoned cattle are currently being sheltered through 72 registered and nine contracted gosadans in the state. He added that the Gramya Gosevak Yojana has been launched on a pilot basis to strengthen cow welfare at the village level. Land has also been identified at 63 locations for the construction of new gaushalas with the support of the Urban Development and Panchayati Raj departments.
The CM however also noted that merely building gaushalas would not be sufficient and stressed on the need to link cattle conservation with natural farming, organic manure production, biogas generation and agricultural innovation. Such efforts, he said, would help raise farmers’ incomes while strengthening the rural economy. He reiterated that cruelty towards cattle and illegal activities such as cow slaughter would not be tolerated and strict action would be taken against offenders.
Among those present were former CM and former Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari, Cabinet Ministers Subodh Uniyal, Madan Kaushik and Pradeep Batra, Rajya Sabha MP Naresh Bansal, MLAs Premchand Aggarwal and Pritam Singh Panwar, Mahamandaleshwar Swami Ishwardas Maharaj, Swami Atmanand Maharaj, along with several saints, public representatives and distinguished citizens.