Rs 50 Subsidy for Indigenous Cows Sparks Resentment

The state government has decided to give a subsidy of Rs.50 per cow per day for rearing of indigenous cows by giving them the status of ‘Rajyamata’. The status has been given to all indigenous cows but only the cows in cowsheds will get the subsidy. Hence, this has angered the cattle breeders.

In many places at Pimpri Chinchwad, some farmers rear cattle for milk business. However, rearing indigenous cows is not affordable. Hence, the number of hybrid cows is increasing recently and comparatively, indigenous cows are decreasing.

The state government has decided to pay Rs. 50 per cow per day for cowsheds rearing indigenous cows. Only two cowsheds are functioning in the city.

Meanwhile, many farmers in Pimpri, Walhekarwadi, Ravet, Kivale, Mamurdi, Charholi, Bhosari, Moshi, Chikhali areas of the city are still engaged in milk business. They also have hybrid cows along with native cows. However, the government has decided to give subsidy only to cowsheds. Due to this, there is resentment as farmers are not going to get the subsidy.

1 litre milk of indigenous cows costs Rs 100

Indigenous cows have many uses. Their milk, curd, ghee are very nutritious and good for health. Hence, there is increasing demand for their milk. On an average, the cost of a litre of milk is around Rs. 100, while the price of one kg ghee is up to Rs. 1,000.