Hamirpur District’s Ambitious Plan for Self-Reliant Cattle Shelters

The Hamirpur district administration in Himachal Pradesh is developing a comprehensive plan to enhance and make cattle shelters self-reliant. With funding from various government schemes, the project aims to integrate agricultural activities, improve infrastructure, and generate income through milk production and other resources.

The Hamirpur district administration in Himachal Pradesh is formulating an ambitious plan to upgrade cattle shelters and ensure their self-reliance, leveraging funds from various government schemes, officials announced on Saturday.

Currently, 2,285 animals reside in 28 'gaushalas' in the district, according to Hamirpur Deputy Commissioner Amarjeet Singh, citing state animal husbandry department data.

Around 2,071 animals in 26 registered shelters have received close to Rs 6 crore, at a rate of Rs 700 per animal monthly, through the Gauseva Commission. Additional funds have also been earmarked for infrastructure development, Singh noted.

Singh praised the efforts of 'gaushala' operators but acknowledged that many still face challenges. To address these, a comprehensive plan will be devised, linking cattle shelters with agricultural and related activities, incorporating operators' suggestions.

Singh highlighted potential income sources through infrastructure improvement by integrating schemes from Rural Development, Panchayati Raj, and departments such as agriculture, horticulture, and forestry.

The project aims to make 'gaushalas' self-reliant through milk production, cow urine and dung gas, traditional fuel, earthworm compost, natural farming, and pasture and water source development.

He urged all 'gaushala' operators to observe best practices from well-managed shelters and continually improve their own facilities.

(With inputs from agencies.)