MP: Self-reliant cow shelters yet to take off as mismanagement claims grow

The concept of creating “Atmnirbhar Gaushalas” by converting waste into wealth in the shelters across Madhya Pradesh was envisaged four years ago but is yet to become a reality. The amendment effected in the Act reads, “…Therefore, to bring an amendment in sub-section of section 11 of the Madhya Pradesh Govansh Vadh Pratishedh Adhiniyam, 2004 a provision is proposed that no order of confiscation shall be made under this section unless the collector issues an intimation in the prescribed format regarding the initiation of proceeding for confiscation of the seized conveyance, cow progeny and beef.” The government grant per cow for fodder has been doubled from ₹20 per cow per month to ₹40 per cow per month. We have identified 21 such places where there is no danger to cows from wild animals and they have forest areas to be used as pastures.” A government official, who asked not to be named, said: “Besides gaushalas the state government needs to revive Gau-Sadans; more than 10 in number across the state lying in dilapidated condition, each of which can accommodate more than 10000 cows. Another official from the department said: “There are regular reports regarding the death of cows from various shelters either due to want of fodder or treatment.” Carcasses of over 100 cows were found at a shelter on the outskirts of the state capital Bhopal last year. An official from the animal husbandry department, who asked not to be named, said: “There may have been some curb on smuggling of cows but until and unless the nexus between cattle mafia and those in the government machinery is broken, effective control on such smuggling will continue to remain wishful thinking.” Rathore, quoted earlier, claimed they often witnessed illegal transportation of cows but, he said: “Problem is if we report the incidents to the police nothing will happen to those smuggling cows but we will certainly face music from police for obvious reasons.” Lakhan Patel, Animal Husbandry minister, said: “The budget increase and law amended to check illegal transportation of cows will certainly lead to a positive change in the entire scenario.