Can Rajasthan Become India's Largest Dairy Hub?
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Synopsis
Rajasthan's Chief Minister envisions transforming the state into India's largest dairy hub, emphasizing the cultural significance of cows and the government's extensive support for cow welfare and farmers.
Key Takeaways
- Rajasthan is set to become India's largest dairy hub.
- Significant funding is allocated for cow welfare.
- Cows play a vital role in Indian culture and agriculture.
- Support for milk producers includes subsidies and financial aid.
- Gaushalas receive assistance to ensure their effectiveness.
Jaipur, Sep 6 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Rajasthan, Bhajan Lal Sharma, emphasized the significant role of cows in Indian culture, stating they have been the bedrock of prosperity. He reminisced about the custom of presenting the first roti to cows, honoring bulls prior to sowing, and conducting marriage ceremonies during twilight hours.
“In areas where cows are honored, prosperity and culture thrive,” he remarked, noting that gatherings like Gau Mahakumbh motivate the safeguarding of cows and bolster cowherds and farmers.
He encouraged individuals to visit Gaushalas on special occasions such as birthdays and anniversaries, pledging to support cow welfare.
The Chief Minister spoke at the Gau Mahakumbh, a global conference on cows, hosted by Shri Devraha Baba Gau Seva Parivar at Vidyadhar Nagar Stadium in Jaipur on Saturday.
He mentioned that the state government has implemented remarkable measures for the welfare of cows, cowherds, and farmers.
Under cow protection and promotion initiatives, a total grant of Rs 2,791 crore has been allocated. Registered Gaushalas receive Rs 50 per cow per day and Rs 25 for calves.
So far, 341 Gaushalas have been equipped with infrastructure enhancements, while 100 Gaushalas have been supplied with Gau Kashth machines at reduced prices.
Through the Nandishala Sahyogita Yojana, over Rs 62 crore has been dedicated to infrastructure at the Panchayat level.
Sharma envisions transforming Rajasthan into not only an agricultural powerhouse but also India's largest dairy hub.
To assist milk producers, a subsidy of Rs 5 per litre has been established, ensuring an average price of Rs 864 per kg fat.
A provision of Rs 500 crore has been allocated under the Chief Minister Milk Producer Incentive Scheme, with Rs 468 crore already disbursed through Direct Benefit Transfer.
The CM underscored that farmers and animal caretakers are vital contributors to food and nutrition.
To uplift them, the government has raised the 'Kisan Samman Nidhi' from Rs 6,000 to Rs 9,000, extended loan options via the Gopal Credit Card, and provided Rs 3 lakh insurance coverage to over 33,000 milk producers. He urged the public to engage in cow service, ensuring that no cow goes hungry, and that Gaushalas do not face resource scarcity.
During the event, the Chief Minister explored a cow-centric exhibition, assessed cow products, and examined indigenous cow and bull breeds.
He also reviewed the Gokul Gram model developed in Bichoon, Jaipur. Veteran leader Ramadevi Chopra, Gau Mahakumbh Chairman Dr. Lal Singh, alongside several representatives from cow advocacy organizations, cowherds, and local citizens, were in attendance.
Point of View
Rajasthan's initiative under CM Sharma's leadership is a noteworthy step toward enhancing agricultural sustainability and promoting dairy farming. The government's focus on cow welfare resonates with cultural values, while significant funding and subsidies aim to empower local farmers, thus contributing to national food security.
NationPress
06/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of cows in Indian culture?
Cows are deeply revered in Indian culture, symbolizing prosperity and nurturing traditions such as offering the first roti to them and conducting rituals in their honor.
What initiatives has the Rajasthan government taken for cow welfare?
The Rajasthan government has allocated Rs 2,791 crore for cow protection, providing financial assistance to registered Gaushalas and implementing various welfare schemes.
How does the government support milk producers?
The government offers a subsidy of Rs 5 per litre of milk and has established a Chief Minister Milk Producer Incentive Scheme with a provision of Rs 500 crore.
What are Gaushalas?
Gaushalas are shelters for cows that provide care and protection, and the government supports them financially to ensure their sustainability.
What is the vision for Rajasthan's dairy industry?
The vision is to transform Rajasthan into India's largest dairy hub, enhancing the livelihoods of farmers and boosting the state's economy.
