Maharashtra Announces Subsidy Scheme for Indigenous Cow Breeds

Why in the news?

Maharashtra launched a subsidy program to support gaushalas caring for desi cows, aiming to preserve indigenous breeds as cow populations decline across the state.

Maharashtra’s Subsidy Scheme for Indigenous Cows: 

  • The Maharashtra government announced a subsidy of ₹50 per day per cow for gaushalas that care for desi (indigenous) breeds.
  • This scheme aims to preserve the state’s indigenous cow population, which has been declared as “Rajya Mat-Gomata.”
  • The Goseva Ayog will oversee implementation, with district committees scrutinising applications from gaushalas.Maharashtra Announces Subsidy Scheme for Indigenous Cow Breeds

Economics and Population Decline:

  • Indigenous cow numbers declined by7% from 2012 to 2019, as per the 20th Livestock Census.
  • It remains unclear if the subsidy will cover all indigenous cows or only certified breeds.
  • Khillari, the most common breed in Maharashtra, is prized for its sturdiness, especially in Pune.

Milk Production and Conservation Efforts:

  • Indigenous breeds produce less milk (344 kg/day) compared to crossbreeds (8.55 kg/day).
  • The National Gokul Mission and BJP have long supported preserving desi breeds, advocating A2 milk for its potential health benefits, though these claims lack strong scientific backing.
  • The scheme benefits gaushalas, not individual farmers, many of whom struggle with low milk prices despite a ₹5/litre

Key Points:Maharashtra’s ‘RajyaMata-Gomata’ Scheme:

  • Context: Maharashtra designated indigenous cow breeds as ‘RajyaMata-Gomata’ due to declining numbers.
  • Subsidy Scheme: ₹50 per cow per day to support goshalas, encouraging native breed rearing.
  • Cultural Importance: Indigenous cows hold religious, scientific, and economic value; their milk is prized for nutrition, organic farming, and Ayurveda.
  • Implementation: Scheme monitored by district committees through an online application process.
  • Opposition Criticism: Congress labelled the move as politically motivated ahead of elections and questioned the clarity of the resolution.
  • Major Breeds:
    • Deoni (Marathwada)
    • Lal Kandhari (Marathwada)
    • Khillar (Western Maharashtra)
    • Dangi (Northern Maharashtra)
    • Gaolao (Vidarbha)

Sources Referred:

PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express, Hindustan Times