Raipur: The Chhattisgarh government has set an ambitious target to establish 1,460 “Godhams” (cattle shelters) across the state under its livestock management initiative. However, the scheme is facing delays due to slow land allocation in several districts.
The initiative is aimed at addressing the growing problem of stray and abandoned cattle across the state and improving road safety and rural management.
10 Godhams Planned in Each Development Block
Under the scheme, the state plans to set up 10 Godhams in every development block.
Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai had formally launched 29 Godhams from Bilaspur on March 14, but the expansion plan has slowed due to land availability issues in districts such as Raipur, Bilaspur, and Raigarh.
Stray Cattle Causing Traffic and Safety Issues
The increasing number of stray cattle on roads has become a major concern, affecting traffic flow and causing accidents.
The Chhattisgarh High Court has also raised concerns over the issue and questioned the state government on why cattle are still found on roads despite existing management systems.
Land Requirement and Financial Assistance Structure
Each Godham requires at least one acre of land, primarily for fodder development and cattle management.
Financial assistance under the scheme includes:
- ₹47,000 per acre annually for fodder development
- Up to ₹2.35 lakh annually for five acres of land
Each facility is designed to accommodate around 200 cattle.
Staff Salary and Maintenance Support Fixed
The government has also defined operational funding and salaries for staff managing the Godhams:
- ₹10,916 per month for general workers
- ₹13,126 per month for animal caretakers
In addition, maintenance funds for cattle care have been structured on a per-animal basis.
Per-Animal Maintenance Cost Increased Over Years
The per-animal daily maintenance support is structured as follows:
- ₹10 per day in the first year
- ₹20 per day in the second year
- ₹30 per day in the third year
- ₹35 per day in the fourth year
This phased increase aims to improve long-term sustainability of cattle shelters.
Focus on Rural Animal Welfare and Road Safety
Officials said the Godham scheme is designed to provide structured shelter for stray cattle, reduce road accidents, and support rural animal welfare systems across Chhattisgarh. However, the government has acknowledged that faster land allocation and administrative coordination are crucial for achieving the target.
