Maharashtra: Eknath Shinde govt declares cow as 'Rajya Mata' ahead of Assembly polls; launches subsidy scheme

Mumbai: The Maharashtra government, led by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, on Monday issued an order declaring cow as 'Rajya Mata' citing the cultural importance of cows in India and its traditions.

In the official order, the Mahayuti government said that cows have been an important part of the Indian tradition and hold a spiritual, scientific and military significance since time immemorial.

In the official notification, the Shinde government stated, “Since ancient times, cows have had a unique importance in the daily life of human beings. Considering the religious, scientific and economic importance of cows since Vedic times, they are called "Kamdhenu". Different indigenous breeds of cows are found in different parts of the state, day by day the number of indigenous cows is decreasing drastically. Indigenous cow's milk has more nutritional value in the human diet. The milk of native cows is a complete food, as it contains important nutrients for the human body's nutrition.”

As per reports, the Maharashtra Cabinet has decided to implement a subsidy scheme of Rs 50 per day for the rearing of indigenous cows, as the 'goshalas' (cowsheds) in the state could not afford it due to their low income, the decision was taken to strengthen them.