Chhattisgarh to Launch Gaudham Yojana for Stray Cattle Welfare

Swift Summary

• Chhattisgarh Government to Launch Cattle Protection Scheme: The state will introduce the Gaudham yojana, focusing on curbing illegal cattle trafficking and providing safe shelters for stray cattle.
• Shelter Plans for seized and Stray Cattle: Each Gaudham can accommodate up to 200 cattle, with dedicated infrastructure like fencing, water supply, electricity, and adjoining pastureland for fodder cultivation.
• Monthly honorariums and Daily Allowances Announced: Cowherds will receive ₹10,916 monthly while attendants get ₹13,126. Daily payments per animal will increase annually during the first four years.
• Replacement of Congress-Era Scheme: The initiative replaces the now-defunct Gauthan Yojana, which lacked a dedicated budget under the BJP government. Dung procurement provisions have been dropped in favor of scientific conservation methods.
• Use of Existing Infrastructure from Previous Scheme: Infrastructure created under Gauthans will be repurposed for new shelters on government land.Registered cowshed committees or eligible organizations can manage operations after district-level approval.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The launch of Chhattisgarh’s Gaudham Yojana signifies a step toward structured livestock management in both rural areas and highways prone to stray cattle challenges. Eliminating provisions like dung procurement likely simplifies operations while prioritizing scientific conservation methods ensures sustainable practices within thes shelters.

From an administrative outlook, replacing a defunct scheme highlights efforts to use existing resources effectively while offering clarity around funding mechanisms that previously appeared inconsistent. Furthermore, integrating NGOs and cooperative societies into shelter management reflects an inclusive approach that could enhance implementation efficiency.

Potential benefits include reducing highway accidents caused by stray animals-a concern noted by the High Court-and fostering economic stability through honorariums for key stakeholders. However, success rests heavily on transparent execution at district levels, particularly given dependencies on proposals and approvals linked with local administrations.

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