CM Dr. Mohan Yadav Says: Cow Protection and Dairy Prosperity Are Government Priorities

CNN Central News & Network–ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: Chief Minister Mohan Yadav said that Cow (Go-Mata) and cattle rearing are integral parts of our ancient culture. Cow protection and promotion are among the government’s top priorities, with the aim of doubling the income of livestock farmers. Currently, Madhya Pradesh contributes around 9% to the country’s total milk production, and the government is working to increase it to 20%.

The state government is running the “Dairy Prosperity Outreach Campaign,” under which veterinarians visit villages to provide livestock farmers with guidance on breed improvement, animal health, nutrition, and modern dairy production techniques. In the first phase of the campaign, direct communication was conducted with over 370,000 livestock farmers to address their issues.

To promote cow protection, the government has increased the grant for cow shelters from ₹20 to ₹40 per cow per day. A budget of ₹600 crore has been allocated for the financial year 2025-26. Currently, more than 2,900 cow shelters are operational in the state, taking care of 425,000 cattle. A massive cow shelter with a capacity of 10,000 cows is under construction in Bhopal.

The government has implemented the “Self-Reliant Cow Shelters (Gokul Dham) Policy–2025” to make cow shelters self-sufficient. Under this policy, 4,235 acres of land have been allocated for cow shelters across 18 districts.

The Chief Minister also announced that Govardhan Puja will be celebrated across the state on 21 October in accordance with cultural traditions, with active participation from cow shelters and livestock farmers. The main event will be held at Ravindra Bhavan in Bhopal, featuring Govardhan worship, Annakoot offerings, and traditional dances.

Madhya Pradesh is steadily progressing toward self-reliance in cow protection and milk production.