Lucknow, January 9: Amid cold wave conditions in Uttar Pradesh, the Yogi government has stepped up efforts to protect cows in shelters across the state. On Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's instructions to ensure no cow succumbs to the cold, shelters across the state are being equipped with tarpaulins, bonfires, fodder, water, and other necessary facilities.
Veterinary officers have been directed to visit cow shelters regularly, ensuring proper health check-ups, treatment, medication, and care for the cows. It has also been mandated that caretakers remain at the cow shelters overnight to ensure uninterrupted care and support for the bovine.
CM Yogi has further instructed district nodal officers to conduct regular inspections of cow shelters, ensuring there is no shortage of fodder, straw, water, lighting, and other essentials. Additionally, priority has been placed on expediting the establishment of cow protection centers to create a safe environment for destitute cows.
The government has tasked the Rural Development Department and other allied departments with coordinating efforts for effective cow protection. Clear instructions have also been issued to free pasture lands from illegal occupation and ensure the cultivation of both perennial and seasonal fodder through MGNREGA.
The Yogi government has instructed that all infrastructure-related works be completed by February 25, 2025. Implementing agencies have been directed to ensure high-quality construction in accordance with the specified standards and layout.
Structures such as cow sheds, drinking water facilities, must be built in a strong and organized manner. The government has also mandated immediate corrective action in cow shelters where any form of mismanagement or complaints related to cow care are reported.
Currently, 12,35,700 destitute cows are being sheltered in 7,696 cow shelters across Uttar Pradesh. The government aims to further strengthen the quality and management of these shelters. The Chief Minister has emphasized prioritizing tarpaulins, bonfires, and other essential measures to protect cows from the cold.
The Yogi government has stressed that these efforts should be undertaken with utmost seriousness and sensitivity at all levels. These measures will not only safeguard cows during the harsh winter but also reinforce the state's longstanding tradition of cow protection.
