Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami performed Govardhan Puja at the cow shelter located within the Chief Minister’s residence on Wednesday, offering prayers to Gau Mata and seeking blessings for the peace, prosperity, and welfare of the state.
The ceremony, observed a day after Diwali, was marked by traditional rituals as the Chief Minister performed puja and aarti of the cows in accordance with Vedic customs. The event emphasised harmony between humans, animals, and nature, symbolising gratitude towards the environment and the agrarian way of life.
Our correspondent reports that addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Dhami said Govardhan Puja represents the principles of nature conservation and mutual coexistence between humans and animals. He noted that the festival serves as a reminder to stay rooted in Indian traditions, culture, and environmental consciousness, urging citizens to protect and nurture the natural ecosystem that sustains life.
The Chief Minister underlined the spiritual and cultural importance of the cow in Hinduism, describing it as an inseparable part of India’s agrarian and Sanatan traditions. He stated that cow protection and service are not only matters of faith but also critical to livelihood and self-reliance for rural families, as many depend on dairy farming and related activities for their sustenance.
Our correspondent adds that the Chief Minister appealed to the public to collectively support cow service, safety, and protection. He informed that the state government has intensified its focus on cow welfare, with several initiatives aimed at improving the condition of stray and shelter cows.
Dhami announced that the maintenance grant for cows in registered shelters has been increased from ₹5 per animal per day to ₹80 per animal per day, marking a significant step toward improving the well-being of abandoned cattle. Additionally, the state government has introduced a 60 percent subsidy for individuals and organisations establishing private cow shelters across Uttarakhand.
The Chief Minister informed that construction work on 54 cow shelters (Gau Sadans) is currently in progress throughout the state. These shelters are being developed with the objective of providing food, medical care, and protection for stray cattle while promoting the sustainable use of cow-based products such as organic manure and bio-fertilisers.
He added that cow conservation is not only linked to religious sentiments but also contributes to environmental protection and rural economy development. By supporting indigenous cattle breeds and promoting organic agriculture, the government aims to create self-sustaining models of rural prosperity.
Our correspondent adds that Chief Minister Dhami reiterated his government’s commitment to expanding cow welfare programmes in alignment with the principles of Atmanirbhar Bharat. He said that efforts are being made to integrate cow shelters with dairy cooperatives and local self-help groups to generate employment opportunities for rural youth and women.
The Chief Minister concluded his address by calling upon citizens, social organisations, and religious institutions to come together in the mission of cow protection, emphasising that “Gau Seva” is not only a religious duty but also a contribution to humanity and the environment.
The event was attended by senior officials, staff members of the Chief Minister’s Secretariat, and representatives from local cow protection organisations.
