Himachal government disburses Rs 14.68 crore in 2025-26 under Gopal Yojana for destitute cattle
Shimla, April 5
Himachal Pradesh government has taken significant steps to address the growing issue of stray and destitute cattle while safeguarding the interests of farmers, a release said.
During the financial year 2025-26, an amount of Rs 14.68 crore has been disbursed under the Gopal Yojana as a maintenance grant to ensure proper care, shelter and well-being of abandoned and destitute cows across the state.
Recognising the serious challenges posed by stray cattle, particularly the damage caused to standing crops, the Government has accorded high priority to resolving this issue. Farmers in many parts of the state have been facing substantial losses due to crop destruction, and in some areas, the situation has even forced them to scale down or abandon agricultural activities.
A spokesperson of the State Government stated that as part of a major policy initiative to strengthen cattle care infrastructure, the financial assistance for the upkeep of cows in registered cow shelters and sanctuaries has been significantly enhanced. The monthly grant has been increased from Rs 700 to Rs. 1,200 per cow, with effect from October 1, 2025. The enhanced assistance is being disbursed through the Himachal Pradesh Gau Seva Aayog to ensure better management, improved nutrition and proper healthcare for the animals.
The spokesperson said that the proper rehabilitation of stray cattle will not only address the challenges faced by farmers and encourage them to resume farming activities, but will also improve road safety in the state, as a significant number of accidents are attributed to stray cattle on roads.
The spokesperson added that several measures have been proposed in the Budget 2026-27 for the rehabilitation of stray cattle. In recent years, the State Government has established multiple cow sanctuaries and large Gausadans. Reputed voluntary organisations, NGOs and business houses interested in adopting any government Gausadan or cow sanctuary will be granted permission by the Government.
"The rural economy is a priority sector for the State Government. Despite the discontinuation of RDG, there will be no shortage of funds to support our farmers and horticulturists," Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said, according to the release.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Finally some action! My uncle in Kangra had to stop growing wheat because of stray cattle destroying his fields every other day. This dual benefit of helping farmers and animals is the right approach. Hope the funds are used transparently.
As someone who frequently drives through Himachal, the road safety angle is crucial. Stray cattle on highways, especially at night, are a major hazard. This policy seems to tackle multiple issues with one solution. Well done.
While the intent is good, ₹14.68 crore is a significant amount. There must be strict monitoring to ensure this money actually reaches the gaushalas and improves conditions. We've seen funds disappear before. Accountability is key.
Good step. But alongside shelters, there should be a focus on sterilisation and tagging to control the population at the source. Otherwise, we'll just keep building more shelters forever. A more sustainable model is needed.
Encouraging NGOs and businesses to adopt sanctuaries is a smart public-private partnership model. It can bring in expertise and additional resources. Hope other states with similar problems learn from Himachal's policy.
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