New Delhi: The Maharashtra government on Monday issued an order declaring cow as ‘Rajya Mata.’ This decision was taken to highlight the cultural significance of cows in Indian tradition. In the official order, the Eknath Shinde-led government emphasised that cows have long been an integral part of Indian heritage, possessing spiritual, scientific, and military importance throughout history. The decision came just ahead of assembly elections in the state.
The announcement was made during a cabinet meeting where various key proposals were discussed, including the declaration of indigenous cows in Maharashtra as ‘Rajyamata-Gomata.’ After thorough discussions, this proposal received approval, and a government resolution (GR) was issued, detailing the declaration.
Cows are referred to as Kamadhenu
Acknowledging their religious, scientific, and economic significance from the Vedic era, cows are referred to as Kamadhenu (the wish-fulfilling cow). The state is home to various indigenous breeds, such as Devani and Lal Kandhari in Marathwada, Khillar in Western Maharashtra, Dangi in Northern Maharashtra, and Gavladu in Vidarbha. However, there is growing concern regarding the significant decline in the population of these indigenous cows.
“Indigenous cows are a boon for our farmers, which is why we have decided to grant them this status, and we have also made arrangements for their fodder,” Maharashtra deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis said.
Milk from indigenous cows has greater nutritional value
Moreover, the order noted that milk from indigenous cows has greater nutritional value for human consumption. It stated that indigenous cow’s milk is rich in essential nutrients, making it a complete food. Considering its role in human diets, its use in Ayurvedic treatments through Panchgavya, and the importance of indigenous cows’ dung and cow urine in organic farming, the decreasing numbers of indigenous cows are alarming. Consequently, to motivate livestock owners to care for these cows, they have been awarded the title of ‘Rajyamata-Gomata.’
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