On the auspicious occasion of Govardhan Puja, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath performed worship and cow service at the Gorakhnath Temple in Gorakhpur on Wednesday (October 22). During this, he said, “Today is the sacred Govardhan Puja in the series of five-day grand festivals of Deepotsav. This festival, which symbolises India’s agriculture-based tradition, has been an integral part of our lives for centuries. On this occasion, I extend heartfelt wishes to the people of the state.”
Govardhan Puja Symbolises Agricultural Culture
The Chief Minister said that in an agriculture-dominant country like India, the importance of cows and cattle is immense. Govardhan Puja is a symbol of this tradition, and its connection with grand festivals like Diwali has made it even more special. He said, “Today I got the opportunity to perform cow worship and cow service, which is my good fortune. Indian cattle have always been the foundation of India’s prosperity.”
Innovation in Cattle Conservation
CM Yogi mentioned that inspired by the Prime Minister, innovative programs are running across the country under the ‘Gowardhan Scheme’ to produce bio-compost and ethanol from cattle, which are playing a crucial role in conservation and promotion. He said that in the state, not only worship is being conducted, but concrete action plans are also being initiatedaccordingly.
Subsidy Being Provided for 16 Lakh Cattle
He informed that in Uttar Pradesh, there are 16 lakh cattle for which the state government is providing subsidies to protect farmers’ crops from damage. For this, three major schemes are implemented in the state:
- Destitute Cow Shelter Scheme: ₹1500 monthly government assistance per cow.
- Participation Scheme: The government provides four cattle to farmers who join the program, enabling their families to earn up to ₹6000 per month in assistance.
- Malnutrition Prevention Scheme: The government gives cows from shelters to families with malnourished mothers and children, allowing them to care for the animals and receive ₹1500 per month.
Farmers Getting Value for Cow Dung
CM said that a large number of families are benefiting from these schemes. Under the ‘Gowardhan Scheme,’ the state government has introduced new technologies for biogas and ethanol production inspired by the Prime Minister, enabling farmer producers to earn fair value for cow dung and move toward prosperity.
