Punjab govt to set up 22 'gaushalas' in state

Punjab government has decided to set up 22 'gaushalas' (cow shelters) in the state, a senior official said today.
Government will set up cow shelters in all 22 districts of the state, Chief Secretary Sarvesh Kaushal said here.
He held a high-level meeting with senior officers of Animal Husbandry, Rural Development, and Panchayats Department, Chief Architect, Taxation and others to chalk out a time-bound action plan in this regard, an official spokesperson said.
"Officers presented various models of the proposed 'gaushalas' showcasing the layout and other basic amenities," he said.
It was decided that the ambiance of the proposed cow shelters must be closer to the natural habitat full of greenery and water availability, the spokesperson said.

The 'gaushalas' will be set up over an area ranging up to 25 acres and would have the capacity to accommodate around 2,000 cows, he said, adding, panchayat lands have been identified in 17 districts while the task in remaining districts is nearing completion.

All cow shelters will be fenced, have a fodder store and arrangement of water and power, Kaushal said, adding that it would have a couple of tube wells and natural ponds.
Suitable arrangement will be made for the regular upkeep of these cow shelters along with daily supply of fodder for the cattle, he said.
Apart from the dedicated manpower, the veterinary staff and pharmacist would also be stationed in each cow shelter for ailing animals, Kaushal added.