Raipur: Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai said that cows are an important pillar of Indian culture, rural economy, organic farming, and environmental conservation. He emphasized that cow protection is a shared responsibility of society and the initiative can become a successful mass movement only when every family contributes towards cow service and conservation.
The Chief Minister made these remarks while addressing the Gau Seva Sangam and Gau Vigyan Examination Award Distribution Ceremony held at the Farmers’ Auditorium of Indira Gandhi Agricultural University in Raipur.
CM Sai Launches Statewide ‘Mera Parivar Gauvrati Parivar’ Campaign
During the programme, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai launched the statewide ‘Mera Parivar Gauvrati Parivar’ campaign aimed at encouraging families to actively participate in cow protection and service activities.
He also unveiled the poster for a tree plantation campaign focused on environmental conservation and honoured students who achieved outstanding results in the Gau Vigyan Examination.
Key highlights of the event:
- Launch of the ‘Mera Parivar Gauvrati Parivar’ campaign.
- Release of the poster for the environmental tree plantation campaign.
- Felicitation of meritorious students of the Gau Vigyan Examination.
- Distribution of prizes to examination winners.
More Than 1.64 Lakh Students Participated in Gau Vigyan Examination
Chief Minister Sai informed that more than 1.64 lakh students from schools and colleges across Chhattisgarh participated in the Gau Vigyan Examination this year.
He said the large participation reflects growing awareness among the younger generation about:
- Indian culture and traditions.
- Scientific aspects related to cows.
- Environmental responsibility.
- Rural development and sustainable practices.
The Chief Minister urged students to spread awareness about cow conservation among their families and communities, saying that public participation is essential for making the campaign successful at the grassroots level.
Cow Protection Important for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Economy
CM Vishnu Deo Sai said that cows are not only connected with cultural and traditional values but also play a significant role in agriculture, health, environmental balance, and rural prosperity.
He highlighted the importance of cow-based products, including:
- Milk and dairy products.
- Cow dung-based products.
- Cow urine-based products.
According to the Chief Minister, these products can create new employment opportunities and strengthen rural entrepreneurship.
The state government will provide support and training for manufacturing cow dung and cow urine-based products so that cattle rearing can become an additional source of income for farmers and livestock owners.
Chhattisgarh Government Increases Gaushala Support Amount
Chief Minister Sai informed that the state government has increased financial assistance provided to registered gaushalas for cow fodder.
Important measures taken by the government include:
- Fodder assistance increased from Rs 20 to Rs 35 per cow per day.
- Development of modern gaudhams under the Surabhi Gaudham Yojana.
- Availability of facilities including veterinary services, caretakers, fodder arrangements, and other necessary infrastructure.
He said these initiatives are aimed at improving cow protection and providing better management facilities for cattle.
Indigenous Cow Distribution Scheme Expanded in Bastar
The Chief Minister highlighted the indigenous cow distribution scheme being implemented in Bastar with the support of the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB).
He said the scheme has helped increase milk production significantly in the region.
CM Sai added that after the decline of Naxal activities in Bastar, a new phase of development has started. The government is now considering expanding the indigenous cow distribution programme to more interested livestock owners, including members of the Yadav community.
Government Promoting Cow-Based Entrepreneurship and Rural Income
CM Sai said that cow-based products are creating new opportunities for self-employment and rural economic growth.
He added that the government will work towards:
- Providing training for production of cow-based products.
- Encouraging farmers and livestock owners to adopt cattle-based entrepreneurship.
- Creating additional income sources through cow rearing.
Shala Pravesh Utsav and Nyota Bhoj Strengthening Community Participation
During his address, Chief Minister Sai also mentioned initiatives like Shala Pravesh Utsav and Nyota Bhoj.
He said these programmes are helping strengthen the relationship between schools and society.
Under these initiatives:
- People celebrate special occasions such as birthdays, wedding anniversaries, and remembrance days by sharing meals with schoolchildren.
- The tradition helps improve emotional connections between communities and schools.
- Students also receive additional nutritional support.
Ministers Highlight Importance of Gau Vigyan Examination
School Education Minister Gajendra Yadav said that the Gau Vigyan Examination is an effective platform for connecting the younger generation with Indian culture and life values.
He also informed that the state government is working on developing cow sanctuaries where cattle will receive:
- Adequate fodder.
- Proper care facilities.
- Necessary infrastructure.
Ajit Mahapatra, All India Coordinator of Gau Seva Activities, said that the examination helps students understand the scientific importance of cows and develops respect for India’s traditional knowledge system.
Gau Vigyan Examination Winners Receive Cash Awards
During the ceremony, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai honoured the winners of the Gau Vigyan Examination and distributed cash prizes.
The award details are:
- First Prize: Rs 51,000
- Second Prize: Rs 31,000
- Third Prize: Rs 11,000
The Chief Minister said that the examination plays an important role in developing scientific thinking, respect for Indian traditions, and social responsibility among students.
Officials and Students Attend Raipur Ceremony
The programme was attended by officials from the Chhattisgarh State Cow Service Commission, education department representatives, members of cow protection committees, students, and a large number of citizens.
The launch of the ‘Mera Parivar Gauvrati Parivar’ campaign marks a significant step towards promoting community participation in cow conservation, environmental protection, and strengthening the rural economy of Chhattisgarh.
