Maharashtra Government Designates Cow as ‘Rajya Mata’ Ahead of Elections, Emphasizing Cultural Significance

Maharashtra Government Designates Cow as ‘Rajya Mata’ Ahead of Elections, Emphasizing Cultural Significance

In an official gesture that highlights the cultural significance of this beloved animal in Hinduism, Maharashtra on Monday gave cows the title of “rajyamata” (mother). With the impending elections in mind, the Mahayuti government, headed by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, made this pronouncement.

Indigenous cows are a blessing for our farmers, said Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. Our decision is to bestow upon them the rank of “Rajya Mata,” and we will additionally furnish assistance in the raising of native cows in goshalas, or cow shelters.

In a major move, the government acknowledged the value of native cows during a cabinet meeting that Shinde presided. The purpose of this acknowledgment is to combat the alarming loss in native cattle numbers and to support traditional farming practices.

There is currently a government resolution (GR) published on the state’s official website. Through this program, the government hopes to protect native breeds and highlight the value of sustainable farming methods that honour India’s rich cultural legacy.

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Maharashtra is the home of various native cow breeds, such as the “Khillar” in western Maharashtra, the “Dangi” in northern Maharashtra, the “Deoni” and “Lal Kandhari” in the Marathwada region, and the “Gawli” in Vidarbha. But the number of these indigenous varieties has been drastically dropping, mostly as a result of people’s increasing desire for crossbred cows that provide more milk. The survival of native cattle, which are essential to preserving conventional farming techniques and Ayurvedic traditions, is called into question by this trend.