Yogi govt strengthens cow protection drive in Gorakhpur with 34 shelters

Gorakhpur: The cow protection initiative of the Uttar Pradesh govt is gaining momentum in Gorakhpur, with the establishment of multiple cow shelters and the implementation of welfare schemes aimed at protecting stray cattle and supporting needy families.Officials said 34 cow shelters are currently operational across the district with a combined capacity to house around 5,000 cattle. At present, nearly 4,500 stray cattle are being cared for at these facilities, providing them shelter, food and medical attention.
To strengthen the initiative, a large Kanha Upvan shelter is being developed at Tal Nador by the Gorakhpur Municipal Corporation. Being built at Rs 28.94 crore, it will be the largest cow protection centre in the district with a capacity to accommodate around 2,000 stray cattle. The facility will include cow sheds, calf sheds, birth sheds, an administrative building, fodder and feed storage units, and a veterinary dispensary for regular check-ups and treatment of sick animals. A small pond will also be constructed in front of the sheds to ensure water availability and provide a natural environment for the cattle.Meanwhile, under the Chief Minister's Destitute Cattle Participation Scheme, stray cattle are being handed over to needy families and livestock rearers. According to chief veterinary officer Dr Dharmendra Kumar Pandey, around 250 cattle have so far been entrusted to beneficiaries in the district.The state government provides financial assistance of Rs 50 per cattle per day, amounting to Rs 1,500 per month, to support their upkeep. Officials said the initiative is helping provide nutritional support to families through milk while ensuring proper care of stray cattle.Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with Women's day wishes, messages and quotes !