Bhubaneswar: Gokulananda Mallick, Odisha Minister of Fisheries and Animal Resources Development, on Friday distributed financial assistance to the registered goshalas in the state.
Addressing a programme organised at Swaminathan Hall, OUAT, Mallick said that it is one’s duty and responsibility to ensure the health and security of animals and birds, who are very loyal to us and have played integral roles in our society. He said that there has always been a close relationship between humans and animals.
The state government is showing keenness for the welfare of cattle in the state and the “Mukhyamantri Pranekalyan Yojana” assists registered goshalas for the care and maintenance of cattle resources, he said.
A sum of Rs 8.96 crore has been provided as first phase assistance to 66 registered goshalas for the financial year 2024-25 which are sheltering and taking care of about 20,000 destitute cattle. Thirteen animal welfare organisations have been given work orders to rehabilitate about 1300 stray and destitute cattle and will be provided with assistance of about Rs 5 crore when they become operational. Assistance ranging from Rs 20 lakh to Rs 52 lakh is being provided to establish new goshalas for rehabilitation and shelter of 50 to 150 destitute cattle.
In addition, go-ahead letters were distributed for the establishment of 47 vermicompost units in the state. After establishment, assistance of Rs 2.15 crore will be provided to these units and about 3000 tons of vermicompost can be produced annually.
Minister Mallick further said that the implementation of “Mukhyamantri Pranikalyan Yojana” is proof of the government’s commitment towards a more compassionate and inclusive society. He also urged others to come forward for animal welfare.
Suresh Kumar Vashishth, Principal Secretary, F& ARD, Ramashis Hazra, Director, Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services along with representatives from various animal welfare organisations and senior officers were present at the event.
