Archive · 21 Aug 2025
Madhya Pradesh Struggles with Stray Cattle Problem
In Madhya Pradesh, many cows wander the roads, causing accidents.
The government wants to help by creating places for the cows to live, called cow shelters.
They planned a program called 'Gau Swavalamban Yojana', but it's waiting for the okay from the Law Department.
This program will build shelters in 21 districts, aiming to house many cows.
The problem is made worse because some farmers don't want to keep cows that don't produce much milk.
Also, people tried to tag the cows and get local groups involved, but the farmers didn't like that idea, so it didn't work.
Now, everyone is waiting for the government to start the new program so the roads will be safer.
Madhya Pradesh struggles with stray cattle causing road accidents and fatalities.
The 'Gau Swavalamban Yojana' is designed to address the issue but awaits Law Department approval.
The scheme aims to establish cow shelters in 21 districts to house at least 5,000 cattle each.
Stray cattle numbers remain high, with an estimated 8.54 lakh in 2019, potentially higher now.
Previous attempts to tag cattle and involve local bodies faced strong farmer opposition.
- Who
- The Madhya Pradesh Animal Husbandry Department, the Law Department, and local farmers.
- What
- Madhya Pradesh is attempting to manage its stray cattle population and related road safety issues.
- When
- The 'Gau Swavalamban Yojana' is awaiting approval, and construction will take 1-2 years.
- Where
- Madhya Pradesh, specifically in 21 identified districts.
- Why
- To reduce road accidents caused by stray cattle and manage the state's bovine population.
Farmers
Government/Animal Husbandry Department
Cattle Management
Farmers
Farmers opposed tagging and local body involvement.
Government/Animal Husbandry Department
Government and Animal Husbandry Department want to manage stray cattle.
- Stray Cattle in 2019
- 8.54 lakh
- Bovine Population
- 1.87 crore
- Target Districts
- 21
- Cattle per Shelter (minimum)
- 5,000
- Land per Shelter
- 125 acres