What Did CM Mohan Yadav's Govardhan Puja Reveal About MP's Animal Husbandry Initiatives?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Madhya Pradesh is actively promoting animal husbandry through various welfare schemes.
- Govardhan Puja emphasizes respect for nature and cow protection.
- The state aims to double the income of livestock farmers.
- Gaushalas are being established to support cow welfare.
- The goal is to increase milk production from 9% to 20% nationally.
Bhopal, Oct 21 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, Mohan Yadav, celebrated the Govardhan Puja on Tuesday in his native district of Ujjain, followed by a similar event at Ravindra Bhavan in Bhopal.
On this significant occasion, the Chief Minister sent his warm regards and best wishes to the residents of the state, emphasizing themes of good health, economic growth, familial and societal unity, and environmental stewardship.
The Govardhan Parv, observed after Diwali, represents an age-old Indian tradition that honors nature, mountains, and the safeguarding of 'Gaumata' (mother cow).
This tradition is beautifully illustrated by the tale of Lord Krishna lifting the Govardhan mountain with his finger, a divine act commemorated through the Govardhan Puja.
The Chief Minister remarked that this festival serves as a catalyst for the preservation and enhancement of cattle resources, essential for India's rural economy and environmental sustainability. It reflects an Indian perspective where harmony exists among nature, animals, humans, and the divine.
"I am delighted to announce that Govardhan Parv is being celebrated statewide, aligning with local customs and traditions. Innovators in animal husbandry and dairy production will be recognized during these festivities," CM Yadav stated.
During this event, new initiatives were introduced to connect residents with the welfare programs of the Animal Husbandry, Agriculture, and Cooperative Departments, aimed at boosting rural livelihoods through increased milk production and the Vrindavan Gram Scheme.
"Our aim is to double the income of farmers involved in livestock rearing. Currently, Madhya Pradesh accounts for 9% of India's milk production, and we aspire to elevate this to 20%," he emphasized.
CM Yadav outlined a series of initiatives undertaken in the state, which include the establishment of new gaushalas (cow shelters), enhancing per-cow subsidies, supporting cow product entrepreneurs, setting up modern CNG plants utilizing cow dung, and partnering with the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB).
"It is a source of pride that Madhya Pradesh hosts 2,900 cow shelters benefitting farmers and livestock owners. Under the Chief Minister Gau Seva Yojana, 2,203 gaushalas are currently operational," he added.
Over the past year, more than 1,000 new gaushalas have been launched. To ensure shelter and care for cows, gaushalas have been established in Gwalior, Ujjain, and Indore.
In Bhopal, a gaushala with a capacity of 10,000 is under construction on a sprawling 69.18 acres of land. At the Cow Sanctuary, Research and Production Centre in Salaria, Agar-Malwa district, 6,500 cows are currently being cared for.