More than 7,500 cattle protection centres to be illuminated; initiative to support rural women and farmers through cow-based products
Dr. Vishakha Srivastava
Ayodhya: The Uttar Pradesh government is planning to launch the ‘Ek Diya Gomata Ke Naam’ campaign during Diwali to promote cattle protection through public participation. The initiative aims to illuminate more than 7,500 cattle protection centres across the state while encouraging the use of cow-based products and creating livelihood opportunities for rural women and farmers.
Under the initiative, special programmes will be organised at gaushalas and shelters for stray cattle, with the participation of local communities. Young people will also be encouraged to take a pledge to support cattle protection and spread awareness about the care of abandoned cattle.
Animal Husbandry and Dairy Development Minister Dharampal Singh said the initiative would also focus on strengthening the rural economy. Stalls showcasing cow-based products and items prepared by women associated with self-help groups will be set up to encourage sales and provide additional income opportunities.
The government also plans to promote attractive gift items made from cow-based products, encouraging their use and purchase during the festive season.
Gaushalas to become centres of community participation
Special Diwali celebrations will be organised at gaushalas and shelters for destitute cattle, with an emphasis on involving villagers in the festivities. The programmes aim to combine the festive spirit with awareness about cattle welfare and encourage communities to participate in their protection.
The initiative also seeks to develop gaushalas as centres of community engagement and awareness, rather than limiting their role to providing shelter for cattle.
Shyam Bihari Gupta, chairman of the Uttar Pradesh Gau Seva Commission, said promoting cow-based products through self-help groups could help rural women generate additional income. The increased demand for such products during Diwali could also encourage their production and sale in rural areas.
Women and youth to be sensitised
As part of the campaign, rural women and young people will be informed about the importance of cattle protection and the potential uses of cow-based products. The initiative aims to broaden public participation in caring for abandoned cattle while creating economic opportunities through locally produced goods.
According to Gupta, the campaign seeks to connect the cultural traditions associated with Diwali with rural self-reliance and community involvement.
Through ‘Ek Diya Gomata Ke Naam’, the government aims to bring together festive celebrations, cattle welfare and livelihood generation, while encouraging rural communities to contribute to the protection of stray cattle and support women-led self-help groups.
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