Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Wednesday announced various measures in the pursuit of her government’s commitment to cattle protection, including development of ‘Zero Waste’ Gaushalas in the national capital.
Rekha Gupta informed that 13 new gaushalas proposed for Delhi will be developed on a ‘zero-waste model’. Highlighting the existing challenges, she said several gaushalas with a large number of cattle are currently operating in limited spaces adversely affecting their health. To address the problem, the government aims to ensure adequate space and a natural environment for cows. She assuring that until the new gaushalas are constructed and the relocation process is completed, veterinary services, and essential facilities by government will continue at the existing shelters.
CM Gupta made this announcement during the ‘Pran Pratishtha’ ceremony at a newly-constructed Ram temple within the gaushala premises operated by the Delhi Pinjrapole Society in Kishanganj.
Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Law and Justice Arjun Ram Meghwal, North West Delhi MP Yogender Chandolia, and Delhi Assembly Speaker Vijender Gupta were also present on the occasion.
The CM, while offering green fodder to the cows at the gaushala stated that service and care of cows is not merely a tradition, but a cultural and spiritual responsibility of society, calling for collective efforts in this direction.
She added that the Delhi government is working towards establishing at least one new gaushala in every district, with locations already identified.
These cow shelters will be equipped with facilities such as biogas plants, veterinary hospitals, solar plants and zero-waste management systems.
She informed that the government has set a target to install six such plants over the next two years, which will not only improve sanitation, but also generate energy.
The CM also lauded the contribution of gaushala operators and social workers, describing their work as a sacred and divine responsibility.
She said that upon assuming office, the development of gaushalas was prioritised and a long-pending grant-in-aid was released within a week.
Issues related to land lease renewals and electricity and water supply were also resolved on priority, Gupta added.
According to CM, nearly Rs 24 crore for the current year has already been released ahead of schedule to ensure that service activities are not disrupted, while she also expressed confidence that coordinated efforts by the government and society will give a new and stronger direction to cattle protection in Delhi.