How is the UP government making cow shelters self-sustainable?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Promotion of cow-based products is integral to the initiative.
- Women’s Self-Help Groups are essential for local production.
- Eco-friendly products will be highlighted during Diwali.
- The initiative aims for financial independence of cow shelters.
- Cow tourism will enhance local economies.
Lucknow, October 14 (NationPress) The ‘Vocal for Local’ and Go Swadeshi initiatives aimed at achieving ‘atmanirbharata’ are more than mere slogans in Uttar Pradesh. The state government is actively working to implement these principles in various sectors, with the latest effort focusing on integrating cow shelters into this initiative.
The aim of this initiative is to enhance cow protection while simultaneously fostering indigenous industries and creating sustainable livelihoods through products derived from cows.
In preparation for the upcoming Diwali festival, the state administration plans to promote cow-based products widely and has enlisted women Self-Help Groups (SHGs) to encourage the public to utilize these products. These groups will be instrumental in producing and marketing items made from cow dung at the community level.
The program will also advocate for the commercial utilization of cow-based products, including dung, urine, milk, and ghee.
Special awareness campaigns will be launched to encourage the use of eco-friendly products such as cow dung lamps and idols during Diwali, thereby boosting their demand.
The Yogi government has instructed relevant departments to devise and execute action plans in line with this goal.
This initiative is set to not only bolster the Vocal for Local campaign but also contribute significantly to making cow shelters financially independent.
To enhance the economic viability of cow shelters statewide, the government plans to establish an exemplary cow shelter in each district, which will also be developed as a tourist attraction.
The concept of ‘cow tourism’ will be investigated to generate job opportunities and additional income for locals while supporting the development of self-sufficient shelters, as stated in a government release.
Livestock and Dairy Development Minister Dharampal Singh announced that a comprehensive campaign will be launched to promote cow dung lamps, idols, and decorative items for Diwali.
He assured that these eco-friendly products will be readily available in markets, enabling citizens to engage in this environmentally conscious initiative and support the Vocal for Local movement.
Mukesh Meshram, Principal Secretary of Livestock and Dairy Development, disclosed that officials have been tasked with formulating local plans for the commercial use of cow dung and urine in cow shelters.
He stressed that this initiative will not only ensure the self-sufficiency of shelters but also fortify the rural economy.