Pune: The Maharashtra government has elevated Shekhar Mundada, the Chairman of the newly formed Maharashtra Cow Service Commission, to the rank of Minister of State.

Mundada was appointed as the Commission's chairman to spearhead efforts in preserving the declining population of indigenous cows. The latest figures from the 20th Livestock Census show a sharp 20.69% drop in the number of native cattle in the country.

Mundada highlighted that indigenous breeds are well-suited to India’s tropical climate and possess natural immunity, stressing the urgent need for their conservation and protection.

Maharashtra currently has 828 registered goshalas (cowsheds) that collectively house 1,23,389 livestock. In recognition of their importance, the state government has declared the indigenous cow as the "Rajya (State) Mata (Mother)," taking on the responsibility of their care.

To support this effort, each indigenous cow in these registered goshalas will receive ₹50 per day for their nutrition. This initiative is aimed at boosting the population of these cattle.

Mundada further stated that under the Govardhan Cow Breed Scheme, financial aid ranging from ₹15 to 25 lakh has been distributed to each of the state’s 324 talukas to promote indigenous cattle farming.

The grant is intended to support the upkeep and care of indigenous cattle, including cows, bulls, and oxen, regardless of their utility in milk production, agriculture, breeding, or load-bearing activities.

The distributed funds are intended to provide essential resources like fodder, water, and shelter for elderly and non-productive cattle that can no longer be used for agricultural or commercial purposes.