Telangana Government to Roll Out Comprehensive Cow Protection Policy
In a move underscoring cultural values and animal welfare, the Telangana government has initiated the process to formulate a comprehensive policy for cow protection. Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, during a high-level review meeting on Tuesday, directed officials to begin groundwork for a state-wide initiative to safeguard cows, especially those donated as part of religious practices.
To spearhead the effort, the Chief Minister constituted a three-member expert committee comprising:
- Sabyasachi Ghosh, Special Chief Secretary, Animal Husbandry Department
- Shailaja Ramaiyar, Principal Secretary, Endowments Department
- Raghunandan Rao, Secretary, Agriculture Department
This committee has been tasked with conducting an in-depth study of existing cow shelters (goshalas) across Telangana, evaluating operational challenges, and drawing insights from successful cow protection models in other states.
Focus on Culture, Devotion, and Infrastructure
Chief Minister Reddy expressed concern over recent reports of cow deaths in overcrowded goshalas, especially in locations where large-scale donations occur through rituals such as ‘Kode Mokku’. The new policy, he said, must prioritize the welfare of cows donated by devotees, keeping in mind the deep spiritual and emotional significance attached to these acts.
“The state will not compromise on cow welfare,” the Chief Minister said, adding that Telangana is prepared to invest significantly in the infrastructure needed to house and care for donated cattle.
Four Model Cow Shelters in First Phase
As a first step, the government will construct state-of-the-art cow shelters at four major locations:
- Vemulawada, home to the famous Raja Rajeshwara temple
- Yadagirigutta, a key pilgrimage destination
- Yenkepally, near Hyderabad
- P.V. Narasimha Rao Telangana Veterinary University
The Vemulawada shelter, in particular, will be established on over 100 acres of land and will serve as a flagship facility.
Officials presented an initial approach paper to the Chief Minister, outlining best practices for shelter design, veterinary care, and sustainable management.
High-Level Participation and Support
The meeting saw participation from several senior officials and ministers, including:
- Animal Husbandry Minister Vakiti Srihari
- CM’s Principal Secretaries V. Seshadri and Srinivasa Raju
- HMDA Commissioner Sarfaraz Ahmed
- Animal Husbandry Director Gopi
- Ranga Reddy District Collector Narayana Reddy
Chief Minister Reddy concluded by reiterating the government’s commitment to build a policy that aligns with the values of the people while ensuring the highest standards of animal welfare.
