The Rajasthan government is contemplating reviving the traditional cow grazier culture in villages under the Gaon Gwal Scheme, which, in addition to providing employment opportunities to job seekers, is expected to offer multiple benefits.
The state Panchayati Raj Department conceptualised the scheme with a focus on cleanliness (swachhata) and cow protection. However, it will also generate for at least a few unemployed individuals in almost every village, an official spokesperson said.
Under the scheme, the village gram panchayat would employ cow graziers to take villagers’ cattle to nearby pasturelands for grazing in the morning and bring them back by dusk. Rural households wishing to send their cattle for grazing will be required to register with the gram panchayat.
The payments to graziers will be made by the gram panchayat. The scheme is expected to have a multi-faceted positive impact on village life, he said.
This would discourage cattle owners from letting their animals stray freely on the streets. It would help keep streets and villages clean, reduce the risk of accidents caused by stray animals, and prevent damage to crops in agricultural fields. It would also protect cattle from consuming hazardous materials, such as plastic and polythene.
The modalities of the scheme are being finalised, and it may be launched soon. A proposal has been made to launch it as a pilot project in the Ramganj Mandi region of Kota district.