Vedic Connection and Nutritional Value
The notification, issued by the state Agriculture, Dairy Development, Animal Husbandry, and Fisheries Department, highlights the role of indigenous cows in human nutrition, specifically the benefits of their milk. “The importance of desi cow milk in ayurvedic and panchgavya treatments has been recognized for centuries,” the official document stated.
Role in Organic Farming
In addition to the nutritional value, the notification emphasized the agricultural benefits of cow manure. The government pointed out that cow dung plays a crucial role in organic farming, enhancing soil fertility and contributing to sustainable agricultural practices.
A Timely Decision
This announcement comes just ahead of the state assembly elections, underlining the spiritual, scientific, and historical importance of cows in Indian society. An official remarked, “The decision underscores the integral role cows have played in India’s cultural landscape for centuries.”
In a cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, the government also decided to introduce a subsidy scheme offering Rs 50 per day for the care of indigenous cows in ‘goshalas’. This move aims to support goshalas with low income. “A decision was taken in the Maharashtra cabinet meeting today to implement a subsidy scheme of Rs 50 per day for rearing of indigenous cows,” stated a release from the Maharashtra Chief Minister’s Office. This initiative is managed by the Maharashtra Goseva Commission and seeks to address the issue of the declining population of indigenous cows, which fell by 20.69 percent according to the 2019 census.
The Maharashtra Chief Minister’s Office added that each district will have a District Goshala Verification Committee to oversee the scheme’s implementation. “According to the 20th animal census in 2019, the number of indigenous cows has been found to be as low as 46,13,632. This number has decreased by 20.69 percent compared to the 19th census,” it added.Maharashtra Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis commented on the scheme, stating, “Indigenous cows are a boon for our farmers. So, we have decided to grant this (‘Rajya Mata’) status to them. We have also decided to extend help for the rearing of indigenous cows at Goshalas.”The government also announced other measures, including a ten percent salary increase for Kotwal, an eight thousand rupee monthly incentive subsidy for Gram Rozgar Sevaks, and plans to speed up subway work from Orange Gate to Marine Drive. Additionally, the government approved interest-free secondary loan assistance to MMRDA and plans to expedite the Thane circular metro rail project with an approved revised plan of 12,200 crores.
Maharashtra legislative Assembly elections will take place in 288 constituencies, though the Election Commission of India has yet to announce the dates. The elections will see a contest between the Maha Vikas Aghadi coalition and the Maha Yuti Alliance.
(Inputs from ANI, PTI)
