Lucknow: In a major policy shift aimed at strengthening rural livelihoods and cattle welfare, the Uttar Pradesh government has announced plans to transform 7,500 gaushalas (cow shelters) into Cattle Food Security Hubs under its new statewide initiative, “Mission Fodder.” The move seeks to expand the role of gaushalas beyond cattle protection to include large-scale green fodder production, boosting farmers’ income and reinforcing the rural economy.
The initiative, launched under the guidance of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, will focus on making gaushalas self-reliant units by promoting scientific fodder cultivation in and around their premises. According to Shyam Bihari Gupta, Chairman of the Uttar Pradesh Gau Seva Commission, each gaushala will be linked to a network of 50 to 100 farmers to create an organised chain of fodder production, marketing and fair pricing.
From Protection to Production
Under Mission Fodder, available land at gaushalas will be utilised for the large-scale cultivation of nutrient-rich green fodder varieties such as Moringa (drumstick) and Napier grass. Additional fodder crops including sugarcane grass, subabul, dhaincha, and seasonal varieties like lobia, maize, sorghum, millet and berseem will also be promoted.
Officials noted that Uttar Pradesh’s climate is suitable for cultivating nearly 50 types of fodder crops, both monocot and dicot varieties, offering significant diversity and sustainability to the mission.
Long-Term, Low-Cost Solution
Moringa plants can provide green fodder continuously for 12 to 15 years, while Napier grass remains productive for 7 to 8 years with regular harvesting. Moringa is rich in protein and essential minerals, making it highly beneficial for cattle nutrition. It will also serve as natural shade and bio-fencing within gaushala premises. Napier grass, known for its high yield and frequent cutting cycles, will ensure a steady and reliable fodder supply.
The government aims to ensure that every protected cow in gaushalas receives adequate green fodder daily. Compared to dry fodder, green fodder offers superior nutritional value, leading to improved cattle health and enhanced milk production. Self-sufficiency in fodder production is also expected to reduce operational costs and minimise external dependency.
Boost to Rural Economy and Environment
The comprehensive plan integrates cattle conservation, nutrition security, natural farming, environmental balance and rural-urban collaboration. By increasing green cover around gaushalas, the initiative is expected to improve soil fertility and promote ecological sustainability. It will also generate new employment opportunities in rural areas through fodder cultivation, processing and supply chain management.
The Uttar Pradesh Cow Service Commission will implement the scheme in phases under state government supervision. Officials describe Mission Fodder as a decisive step toward building self-reliant gaushalas, promoting natural farming practices and strengthening the rural economy—core components of the state government’s broader development vision.
