Copyright thehindu
Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Bandi Sanjay Kumar, on Sunday, said that cow protection is not a matter of religious belief but a scientific and ecological necessity. “Protecting the cow is equivalent to protecting nature, and in turn, safeguarding our future,” said the Minister, claiming that it is not just a “cultural sentiment” but a “scientifically acknowledged truth.” Speaking at the State-Level Examination Awards Ceremony organised by Goseva Telangana Division at KMIT Engineering College, Narayanguda, the Minister cited examples from various faiths, including instances where Islamic scholars have performed prayers beside cows, underscoring that reverence for cows transcends religious boundaries. The cow is not merely a milk-giving animal but a life-sustaining force. Cow dung enriches soil fertility, supports biogas production, and reduces air pollution. Cow urine has anti-bacterial properties and is used in organic pesticides and fertilizers like Jeevamrut, eliminating the need for chemical inputs, he said. Mr. Sanjay Kumar advocated for integrating cow conservation into school curricula and establishing cow shelters in every village. He expressed concern over the increasing reliance on packaged milk and the decline of traditional dairy practices. The Minister also highlighted several Central government schemes aimed at promoting cow welfare and sustainable agriculture: including: Rashtriya Gokul Mission, National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF), Livestock Health & Disease Control Program, National Program for Dairy Development and National Animal Disease Control Program. He later gave away prizes to the students. Towards the evening, Union Minister Kishan Reddy also attended the meeting where he talked about shrinking agricultural lands and rising urbanisation, which have restricted cows’ freedom. “Even cow shelters are becoming cramped, depriving cows of the space and joy they deserve,” he said.
