Bilaspur: Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai inaugurated the ambitious “Gaudham Yojana” on Saturday, under which 1,460 cow shelters (Gaudhams) will be set up across the state. The initiative aims to ensure proper protection and management of stray and abandoned cows while promoting rural employment and sustainable practices.
29 Gaudhams Inaugurated Digitally
CM Sai formally launched the scheme during a visit to a Gaudham in Lakhasar village, Takhatpur block of Bilaspur district. Later, at an event held in the auditorium of Guru Ghasidas Central University, he digitally inaugurated 29 Gaudhams across 11 districts, marking the beginning of this statewide initiative.
Addressing the gathering, CM Sai said, “Today is a fortunate day as the Gaudham Yojana is being launched from the sacred land of Lakhasar. Cow dung is a vital part of our rural culture, agricultural system, and economy. The state government is implementing this scheme in phases to protect cows and provide care for stray animals.”
All Shelters to be Named “Surabhi Gaudham”
CM Sai announced that all Gaudhams across Chhattisgarh will now be known as “Surabhi Gaudham”. He highlighted that these shelters would not only care for cows but also provide training in animal husbandry, green fodder production, and making useful products from cow dung.
This initiative is expected to create self-employment opportunities for local residents and strengthen the rural economy.
Development Announcements at Lakhasar
During the event, CM Sai made several development-related announcements for the Lakhasar area, including:
- Construction of Mahatari Sadan
- Development of a Mini Stadium
- Building a 500-meter-long Gaurav Path
- Approval of ₹25 lakh for a training building at Lakhasar Gaudham
- Provision of a Cow Catcher and a Mobile Animal Ambulance
He also interacted with local farmers and villagers, appreciating their dedication to cow protection and related activities.
Inspection of Cow Care Facilities
CM Sai inspected arrangements for fodder, water, and healthcare at the Lakhasar Gaudham. Spanning 25 acres, the shelter dedicates 19 acres to green fodder cultivation. The Gaudham is managed by the Kamdhenu Gaushala Committee.
CM Sai Criticizes Previous Government
During the event, the Chief Minister also criticized the previous Congress government for alleged misuse of funds under cow protection schemes, stating that such practices led to accountability issues during the 2023 Assembly elections.
CM Sai emphasized, “In Indian tradition, cows are revered as mothers, and every product derived from them is useful. Stray cattle often roam streets and highways, sometimes causing accidents or dying due to neglect. The Gaudham Yojana aims to ensure their safety and proper management.”
