In a major step ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections, the Eknath Shinde government in Maharashtra has officially declared the cow as 'Rajya Mata,' emphasizing the cultural and religious importance of this revered animal in Hinduism.
Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced this decision, stating that cows are a valuable asset for farmers. He noted that the government is committed to providing support for the care of indigenous cows at goshalas (cow shelters).
"Indigenous cows are a boon for our farmers. So, we have decided to grant this ('Rajya Mata') status to them. We have also decided to extend help for the rearing of indigenous cows at goshalas," Fadnavis said.
To further support this initiative, the Maharashtra government has introduced a subsidy scheme that will provide Rs. 50 per day for the care of indigenous cows in goshalas. Fadnavis explained that this decision was made during a cabinet meeting led by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, addressing the financial struggles faced by goshalas due to low income.
"The subsidy scheme will be implemented online by the Maharashtra Goseva Commission," he added.
This initiative aims to bolster the welfare of goshalas and counter the declining population of indigenous cows in Maharashtra, which has reportedly decreased by 20.69% according to the 2019 census.
Maharashtra's Agriculture, Dairy Development, Animal Husbandry, and Fisheries Department highlighted that the nutritional benefits of indigenous cow milk, along with its significance in ayurvedic treatments and organic farming, played a crucial role in the government's resolution.
The decision also reflects the integral role of cows in India's cultural heritage since the Vedic period, underscoring their spiritual, scientific, and historical significance in Indian society.
Maharashtra, cow, Rajya Mata, Eknath Shinde, Devendra Fadnavis, agriculture, animal husbandry, indigenous cows, goshalas, Assembly elections
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