UP CM Pushes for Self-Reliant Cow Shelters and Fodder Banks

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has announced a renewed focus on making cow shelters (gaushalas) economically self-reliant through income-generating activities such as organic farming, biogas production, and composting. This directive was issued during a key review meeting in Lucknow with officials from the animal husbandry and rural development departments.

Highlighting the economic and cultural importance of indigenous cattle, the CM emphasized the need to integrate cow shelters with the rural economy and dairy sector. He also directed the setting up of fodder banks across districts to ensure uninterrupted supply of green fodder, especially during lean periods. These banks would help mitigate fodder scarcity—often a major cost pressure point for dairy farmers—by providing strategic reserves.

Adityanath also instructed that non-milking and stray cows in shelters be linked to biogas and vermicomposting units, thus generating revenue and reducing maintenance burdens on the state. The government will also offer support for the creation of model cow shelters equipped with training centers for fodder cultivation, cattle management, and dairy-based entrepreneurship.

Officials were asked to explore PPP models and NGO partnerships to scale shelter capacity and enhance productivity, with a strong focus on animal welfare and environmental sustainability.

Industry Insight:
UP’s push for fodder banks and self-reliant cow shelters could significantly reduce feed costs and create backward linkages for dairy cooperatives. This also opens up new PPP and CSR partnership avenues in rural dairy infrastructure.

Source : Dairynews7x7 May 5th 2025 ANI