Chhattisgarh’s Gaudham Yojana: A Comprehensive Approach to Animal Welfare and Economic Growth

The Chhattisgarh government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, is introducing the Gaudham Yojana, a comprehensive plan to strengthen the rural economy and improve livestock conservation. The project aims to boost animal welfare, improve breeds, and create employment opportunities within villages by supporting organic farming, fodder development, and gau-based industries. The initiative is designed to support vulnerable cattle and provide stable incomes to herders and gau-servants, promoting economic stability and self-sufficiency in rural communities. The Finance and Animal Husbandry Department has authorized the Gaudham Yojana draft. The key objectives include scientifically protecting and enhancing bovine animals, promoting gau-products, stimulating fodder development, and establishing Gaudham as training centers. The plan also aims to generate employment for villagers and prevent loss of life and property related to crop damage or accidents. The scheme specifically targets the protection of animals involved in illegal activities such as smuggling and also addresses the issue of stray animals. Each Gaudham will be able to accommodate a maximum of 200 bovine animals. Herders and gau-servants will receive monthly honorariums of ₹10,916 and ₹13,126, respectively. Furthermore, a daily allowance will be provided for animal fodder. Excellent Gaudham facilities will receive financial support, starting at ₹10 per animal per day in the first year, and increasing to ₹35 per day in the fourth year. The budgetary allocations, regulations, and conditions have been established to ensure the effective operation of the scheme.