Bhubaneswar, Nov 23: The BJP government in Odisha on Friday sanctioned Rs 8.96 crore assistance to 66 registered 'goshalas' (cowsheds) in the first phase for the financial year 2024-25.
“The assistance has been provided for giving shelter and taking care of about 20,000 destitute cattle. It is our duty and responsibility to ensure the health and security of animals and birds which are very loyal to us and have played an integral role in our society,” said Gokulananda Mallik, Minister for Fisheries and Animal Resources Development, distributing the financial assistance at a programme.
There has always been a close relationship between human and animals, Our government has sanctioned the money for financial assistance to registered goshalas under "Mukhyamantri Pranikalyan Yojana" for the care and maintenance of cattle resources, Mallik added.
During the event, the minister also distributed work orders to 13 animal welfare organisations for establishment of new goshalas for the rehabilitation of about 1300 stray and destitute cattle.
The organisations will be provided with an assistance of about Rs 5 crore when they become operational, he informed.
Under Mukhyamantri Pranikalyan Yojana, assistance ranging from Rs 20 lakh to Rs 52 lakh is being provided for establishment of new goshalas for the purpose of rehabilitation and shelter of 50 to 150 destitute cattle, officials said.
