PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/Dehradun
Chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami said that the State government is actively promoting the construction and operation of cow shelters for stray cattle. He said this during the Govardhan Pooja at the Gaushala of his residence on Wednesday. He worshipped the cows and prayed for the well-being of the State.
CM said that Govardhan Pooja symbolises nature conservation and represents the bond between humans and animals. He emphasised that this festival reminds us to remain sensitive to our traditions, culture and environment. In Hinduism, the cow is revered as a mother and plays a crucial role in Sanatan culture and agricultural life. The service and protection of cows enhance our overall lives, as many families rely on cow rearing and related activities for their livelihood. Cow conservation is not only a matter of religious sentiment but also essential for self-reliance.
Dhami urged everyone to collaborate in the service, protection and preservation of cows. He said that the State previously provided Rs five per day for the maintenance of stray cattle in the cow shelters, a rate which has now been increased to Rs 80 per animal per day. Additionally, the State government has introduced a provision for a 60 per cent subsidy for the construction of private cow shelters. Currently, construction is underway for approximately 54 cow shelters in the State. CM assured that the government will continue its efforts for cow protection in the future.
