Delhi Government releases Rs 20.26 cr for cow welfare
The Delhi Government has released Rs 20.26 crore to support cow welfare and strengthen gaushala infrastructure. The Chief Minister, Rekha Gupta, made an announcement on Monday and outlined a plan to develop 10 modern gaushalas in the first phase.
The funds aim to clear pending dues, ensure regular fodder supply, and improve facilities for stray cattle across the Capital. Lease extensions and licences for existing gaushalas have also been renewed to ensure uninterrupted operations. “Our Government is fully committed to the protection and welfare of stray cattle. Gaushalas must function without financial or administrative hurdles,” the Chief Minister said while addressing an event at the Jan Seva Sadan.
The financial package includes Rs 7.64 crore to clear pending liabilities from June 2024 to March 2025 and Rs 12.62 crore towards fodder expenses from April 2025 to January 2026. Officials said the move will help ensure timely feeding, shelter, and medical care for cattle housed in these facilities.
The Chief Minister also handed over lease extension certificates and official documents to representatives of four Government-supported gaushalas located in Sultanpur Dabas, Rewla Khanpur, Harewali, and Surhera. These gaushalas operate under the Animal Husbandry Unit and cater to stray cattle brought in by local civic bodies.
The Chief Minister said the Government plans to transform gaushalas into modern, well-equipped centres for animal care. “In the first phase, 10 modern gaushalas will be developed. Our goal is to eventually equip around 40 gaushalas with improved infrastructure and services,” she said.
The initiative also includes financial assistance for setting up biogas plants at gaushalas. Officials said this will help convert cow dung into clean energy, promoting sustainability and better sanitation. The Chief Minister stressed that gaushalas should not be seen merely as shelters but as centres of compassion and service. She said protecting stray animals, especially abandoned cows, and is essential in a large urban centre like Delhi. “Gaushalas provide not just shelter but also nutrition and medical care to animals that cannot fend for themselves. It is our responsibility to ensure they live with dignity,” she said.
The Chief Minister added that clearing long-pending dues and renewing licenses reflects the Government’s intent to remove bottlenecks faced by gaushala managements. She said authorities want operators to focus entirely on animal welfare without worrying about funding or regulatory delays.
Officials said the Government will also work with gaushala managements to introduce better fodder management systems and modern veterinary services. The focus will be on improving overall efficiency and ensuring higher standards of care.
The Chief Minister noted that long-term success will require cooperation between the Government and society. She said public participation and awareness are key to addressing the issue of stray cattle in the city.
Representatives of the gaushalas present at the event welcomed the move and expressed gratitude for the financial support. They said the funds and policy decisions will help improve facilities and ensure better care for animals.
The initiative is part of a broader effort by the Delhi Government to address stray cattle issues while promoting animal welfare and sustainable practices.
