Earlier scheme defunct, Chhattisgarh to launch new cattle protection plan

The Chhattisgarh government will soon launch a new cattle protection scheme called Gaudham Yojana with a “special focus on curbing illegal trafficking and ensuring safety of stray cattle”. It will shelter cows seized by police during anti-smuggling operations, said a government statement.

“The Livestock Development Department has designed this scheme keeping in mind the safety of cattle seized during illegal transportation or smuggling, as well as stray cattle. The state already has a ban on illegal trafficking and transportation of animals… Each Gaudham will be able to house a maximum of 200 cattle, depending on capacity,” stated the release.

Court concern

In the past one year, the Chhattisgarh High Court has more than once expressed concerns on stray cattle that puts the lives of both the animals as well as humans at risk on Chhattisgarh roads and highways.

The new scheme bundles provisions such as fixed monthly honorarium of ₹10,916 for cowherds and ₹13,126 for cattle attendants. Additionally, a fixed daily allowance will be provided for cattle fodder. Outstanding cattle shelters will receive daily per-animal payments – ₹10 in the first year, ₹20 in the second year, ₹30 in the third year, and ₹35 in the fourth year.

Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai said the Gaudham Yojana will ensure livestock safety in the State while providing a regular source of income to a large number of cowherds and cattle attendants.

The new scheme effectively replaces the now defunct Gauthan Yojana, launched by the previous Bhupesh Baghel-led Congress government three years ago, under which the honorariums were decided by committees operating the cattle shelters.