Chandigarh: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has approved the waiver of electricity bills for all gaushalas across the state, extending free electricity to 152 additional cow shelters.
The decision will increase the number of gaushalas receiving free electricity from 366 to 518, according to reports citing an official statement.
152 More Gaushalas to Receive Free Power
The decision was taken during a meeting chaired by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann.
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Before the latest approval, 366 gaushalas were receiving free electricity. The expanded coverage will bring another 152 shelters under the facility.
- Existing beneficiaries: 366 gaushalas
- Additional gaushalas: 152
- Total after expansion: 518 gaushalas
Mann said gaushalas play a role in addressing the issue of stray cattle in Punjab and said the state government would continue supporting these institutions.
CM Calls for Better Management of Gaushalas
During the meeting, Mann stressed the need to strengthen the management of gaushalas and ensure proper care of the cattle housed there.
He also said that gaushalas should be modernised to improve their management and help address the issue of stray animals. The Chief Minister said the state government would provide support and cooperation for the purpose.
Mann also appreciated gaushala management committees for their work in caring for stray cattle.
Government Support for Gaushalas
The Chief Minister said the state government remained committed to taking decisions concerning different sections of society and supporting gaushalas in managing stray cattle.
According to the reports, the government sees the shelters as playing a role in caring for cattle that might otherwise remain on roads.
The meeting was attended by Punjab Chief Secretary KAP Sinha and other senior officials.
With the latest decision, 152 additional gaushalas will receive free electricity, taking the total number covered by the facility to 518 across Punjab.
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