Chhattisgarh Unveils New Plan for Cattle Protection After Earlier Scheme Ends

Rapid Summary

• The Chhattisgarh government is set to launch a new cattle protection scheme named Gaudham Yojana,focusing on curbing illegal trafficking and ensuring the safety of stray cattle.
• The scheme includes shelters for cows seized during anti-smuggling operations,each capable of housing up to 200 cattle based on capacity.
• The state has an existing ban on illegal animal trafficking and transportation.
• Monthly honorariums will be provided: ₹10,916 for cowherds and ₹13,126 for cattle attendants. Additionally, daily allowances will be allocated for cattle fodder.
• Outstanding shelters will receive increased daily per-animal payments in tiered increments over four years (₹10-₹35).
• Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai highlighted that Gaudham Yojana aims not only to protect livestock but also to create steady income opportunities for caretakers.
• This scheme replaces the previous Gauthan Yojana introduced by the former Congress-led government three years ago.

Indian Opinion Analysis
The Gaudham yojana represents a focused approach toward addressing challenges related to stray cattle and their illegal smuggling in Chhattisgarh. By systematically providing financial support-both as wages for caretakers and operational funding-it seeks sustainable outcomes while aligning with court concerns about road safety risks posed by stray animals.

Replacing Gauthan Yojana suggests a policy shift by the current administration under Vishnu Deo Sai toward centralized management standards rather than localized decision-making through committees. While this modification might streamline implementation, success will depend on efficient execution at ground levels given resource constraints like shelter capacity (200 animals max). Striking a viable balance between protecting animal welfare and enforcing strong deterrents against illegal activities remains crucial here.

Read more