Gaushala

Gaushala are Sanctuaries for bovine animals whose origin can be traced back to the vedic period ‘Rigveda’ refers to cow as Aghnya , one which must never be killed. Historically our social customs and rules laid great emphasis on Protection , Preservaton , and development of cow and its progeny . The Gaushalas symbolize our cultural heritage for the animal welfare and is synonymous with the protection of cows and cattle wealth of the country. It is an institution established for the purpose of keeping, breeding, rearing and maintaining cattle or for the purpose of reception, protection and treatment of infirm, aged or diseased cattle. It is primarily focused on providing shelter to cows and caters mostly to the needs of non-lactating, weak, unproductive, and stray cattle .The last half decade (2012-2019) has seen a decline in the total indigenous cattle population to a tune of 6.00 percent.The major factors for the decrease in indigenous cattle population are attributed to uneconomical returns due to low productivity and replacement of draft power in agriculture by mechanization.This has led to extra burden on the farmers’ to take care of feeding, breeding and healthcare needs of the cattle.However, due to growing consensus for protection and conservation of our cattle resources, institutions like Gaushalas have gained significant importance over the time. However, the potential of Gaushalas is yet to be stapped by its stakeholders.