Maharashtra Declares Indigenous Cows as 'Rajya Mata' Ahead of Elections

The Maharashtra government, under CM Eknath Shinde, has declared indigenous cows as 'Rajya Mata' and introduced a subsidy scheme to promote their welfare ahead of assembly elections. VHP leader Vinod Bansal praised the initiative, which includes several other measures to support agriculture and infrastructure.

In a move aimed at bolstering indigenous cow welfare, the Maharashtra government, led by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, has designated these cows as 'Rajya Mata' ahead of the upcoming assembly elections. Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) leader Vinod Bansal hailed the decision, suggesting it was a crucial step towards cow protection and aligned with the legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.

The state administration also approved a subsidy scheme, providing Rs 50 per day to support the rearing of these cows in 'goshalas' or cow shelters. The initiative, directed by the Maharashtra Goseva Commission, is intended to help struggling goshalas and address the declining population of indigenous cows, which fell by 20.69 percent as per the 2019 census to 4,613,632. Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis emphasized the positive impact on local farmers.

In addition to cow welfare measures, the cabinet approved a 10 percent salary hike for Kotwals and incentives for Gram Rozgar Sevaks. Infrastructure advancements include fast-tracking subway construction from Orange Gate to Marine Drive and revising the Thane circular metro rail project, estimated at Rs 12,200 crores. The Maharashtra legislative assembly elections, covering 288 constituencies, are forthcoming, with dates yet to be announced.

(With inputs from agencies.)