UP Aims to Make Gaushala's Self-Reliant; Govt to Promote Cow Dung and Urine for Farming

Uttar Pradesh is transforming its cow shelters into self-sustaining hubs by harnessing cow dung and urine to promote natural farming, a move aimed at boosting eco-friendly agriculture and farmer livelihoods. With over 7,700 gaushalas sheltering 12.5 lakh stray cattle, the state government is leveraging these resources to enhance soil fertility, reduce chemical dependency, and create economic opportunities.

Animal Husbandry Minister Dharmpal Singh emphasized the initiative’s scope, stating, "We’re collaborating with the National Dairy Development Board, Agriculture Department, and NABARD to produce vermicompost at all shelters, which will be sold to farmers to promote cow-based natural farming." This aligns with discussions held during the recent Maha Kumbh, where strategies were devised to integrate gaushalas into sustainable agriculture. Farmers and shelter staff will also receive training in fodder production and preservation to improve cattle nutrition, ensuring a holistic approach.

The state’s focus on natural farming—free from chemical fertilizers and pesticides—prioritizes soil, water, and human health. Cow dung and urine, processed into organic fertilizers and pesticides, offer dual benefits: nutritious milk for families and enriched farmland. Uttar Pradesh has allocated Rs 2,000 crore in its latest budget for stray cattle protection, supplementing Rs 1,001 crore previously provided, and approved 543 new shelters with funding raised to Rs 1.60 crore each.

Under the Mukhyamantri Sahbhagita Yojana, 1 lakh farmers have received 1.62 lakh cattle with Rs 1,500 monthly aid per animal. Schemes like the Nandini Krishak Samriddhi Yojana and Amrit Dhara Yojana further incentivize cattle rearing with subsidies and loans up to Rs 10 lakh. Targeting regions like the Ganga basin and Bundelkhand, these efforts tap into rising global demand for organic produce post-Covid. By blending traditional practices with modern needs, Uttar Pradesh is positioning its farmers to thrive in a health-conscious market while making gaushalas economically viable.