Uttar Pradesh Links Cow Shelters with ‘Vocal for Local’ to Boost Self-Reliance and Eco-Friendly Diwali
Image source: IANS
Uttarpradesh, Oct 14 (TheTrendingPeople) – The Uttar Pradesh government is taking the “Vocal for Local” and “Go Swadeshi” campaigns beyond slogans, now linking cow shelters with the initiative to promote indigenous industries, sustainable livelihoods, and eco-conscious practices.
Under this initiative, cow shelters across the state will not only focus on cow protection but also promote cow-based products such as dung, urine, milk, and ghee, giving new financial and cultural significance to these institutions.
SHGs to Play Key Role
Women Self-Help Groups (SHGs) have been entrusted with producing and marketing cow dung-based items at the local level. During the upcoming Diwali festival, these SHGs will actively encourage citizens to adopt cow-based products, including dung lamps, idols, and other eco-friendly decorative items.
“Through this program, cow shelters will become self-sustaining while citizens contribute to the ‘Vocal for Local’ spirit,” a government statement said.
Commercialisation and Cow Tourism
The government plans to promote the commercial use of cow-derived products, creating sustainable livelihoods for rural communities. Livestock and Dairy Development Minister Dharampal Singh said, “A large-scale campaign will be organised to promote cow dung lamps, idols, and decorative items during Diwali. These products will be made widely available in markets to allow citizens to participate in this eco-conscious initiative.”
Additionally, the state administration is exploring the concept of ‘cow tourism’ to generate employment opportunities and additional revenue for residents. Each district is expected to have an ideal cow shelter, developed as both a tourist attraction and a centre for indigenous economic activity.
Strengthening Rural Economy
Principal Secretary of Livestock and Dairy Development, Mukesh Meshram, said officials have been instructed to prepare local-level plans for the commercial utilisation of cow dung and urine. “This initiative will not only make shelters self-reliant but also strengthen the rural economy,” he added.
The move comes at a time when Uttar Pradesh is intensifying efforts to promote local industries, support women-led initiatives, and make cultural and religious practices environmentally sustainable.
Why It Matters
The initiative reinforces the state’s focus on self-reliance and indigenous production while simultaneously promoting environmental awareness. By integrating cow shelters with commercial and tourism activities, Uttar Pradesh is providing a model for sustainable development that combines cultural heritage with economic opportunity.
Final Thoughts – TheTrendingPeople.com
Linking cow shelters with the ‘Vocal for Local’ initiative demonstrates Uttar Pradesh’s innovative approach to sustainable rural development. Beyond cow protection, this program empowers local women, boosts eco-friendly practices, and strengthens the state’s rural economy, creating a model that could inspire other states across India.