Gujarat's Chief Minister Unveils ‘Mukhyamantri Gau Mata Poshan Sahay Yojana’ for Cattle Welfare
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Synopsis
Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel has introduced the ‘Mukhyamantri Gau Mata Poshan Sahay Yojana’ in Gujarat, aimed at enhancing cattle welfare through financial support for cow shelters and emphasizing the state's commitment to animal care.
Key Takeaways
- Introduction of the ‘Mukhyamantri Gau Mata Poshan Sahay Yojana’ for cattle welfare.
- Financial aid of Rs 30 per animal per day for registered shelters.
- Rs 500 crore allocated for cattle care in the 2025-26 budget.
- Over 2.5 crore cattle in Gujarat, including high-yield indigenous breeds.
- Support for dairy production and cattle conservation initiatives.
Gandhinagar, March 27 (NationPress) In a groundbreaking initiative for Gujarat, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel has introduced the ‘Mukhyamantri Gau Mata Poshan Sahay Yojana’ as part of the Gujarat Budget 2025-26, underscoring the state’s dedication to cattle welfare.
This initiative, inspired by the ethos of ‘Jivdaya’ (compassion for all living beings), seeks to offer financial support for the sustenance of cows housed in panjrapols (animal shelters) and gaushalas (cow shelters).
According to the latest data from January 31, 2025, a total of 22 panjrapols and 188 gaushalas in Banaskantha district have gained from the scheme.
The Gujarat government has allocated Rs 87.64 crore in assistance, providing Rs 30 per animal daily for 84,836 cattle, as stated by Animal Husbandry Minister Raghavji Patel in response to a query in the Gujarat Assembly.
Elaborating on the importance of the scheme, the Chief Minister pointed out that the 2025-26 budget has earmarked Rs 500 crore to ensure adequate nourishment and care for cattle throughout the state.
This scheme was initially launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2022 at the Ambaji temple in Gujarat, aimed at aiding institutions registered under the Mumbai Public Trust Act and the Gujarat Public Trust Act prior to March 31, 2022.
Only institutions possessing valid registration certificates and sufficient facilities for cattle welfare are eligible for financial support through this program.
As per the most recent livestock census, Gujarat is home to over 2.5 crore cattle, including indigenous breeds such as Gir, Kankrej, and Dangi, recognized for their high milk production and resilience.
The state stands as one of India’s top milk producers, significantly contributing to the dairy industry through cooperative giants like Amul and Banas Dairy. Cattle farming serves as a primary livelihood for thousands of farmers, especially in rural locales.
To enhance cattle welfare and increase dairy output, the Gujarat government has rolled out multiple initiatives.
The Mukhyamantri Gau Mata Poshan Sahay Yojana, established under the 2025-26 budget, offers Rs 30 daily per animal to registered gaushalas and panjrapols for cattle care.
Moreover, the Nand Baba Milk Mission aims to boost milk production by providing financial support for upgrading dairy farms and assisting cattle farmers with improved veterinary services.
The Gau Seva and Gauchar Vikas Board also manages various welfare initiatives, including the conservation of grazing lands and ensuring the health of stray and abandoned cattle.
Under the Rashtriya Gokul Mission, Gujarat has initiated efforts for the protection and promotion of indigenous cattle breeds by establishing Gokul Grams (cow sanctuaries) and offering artificial insemination services.
The Animal Husbandry Department conducts vaccination campaigns to safeguard cattle from diseases like foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) and brucellosis.
Additionally, programs like Kamdhenu Yojana and Godhan Yojana provide subsidies for cattle acquisition, fostering self-employment within the dairy sector.
