The Uttar Pradesh government has made ‘Godaan’ tax-free in the state. Based on cow protection, the film, produced and directed by Vinod Chaudhary, was released in theaters across the country on Friday.
This decision, taken under the leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, underscores the government’s policy of prioritizing cow protection, socially and administratively. The government believes that the film will spread the message of cow protection to a wider audience and help connect the general public with the seriousness of this issue.
The tax exemption in UP will lead to lower ticket prices for viewers, allowing more people to see the film. Upon assuming office, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath initiated swift action against cow smugglers, leading to the arrest of a large number of them. Clear instructions were given to the administrative machinery to ensure strict action in cases of cow slaughter and smuggling.
The Chief Minister’s affection for cows and his commitment to cow protection is evident from the fact that more than 7,500 cow shelters have been built in the state in the last nine years. Furthermore, more than 1.2 million stray cows have been protected. To make cow service and protection more effective, cow protection committees have been formed in every district. The District Magistrate and Senior Superintendent of Police of each district have been appointed as nodal officers.
The producer-director of ‘Godaan’, a film centered on the protection of cows, their importance in Indian culture, and a scientific perspective based on Panchagavya (five products of the cow), had previously met with Yogi Adityanath. This approximately two-hour film depicts the religious, social, and practical importance of the cow.