Illuminating Cow Shelters: Prayagraj's Innovative Diwali Initiative

As part of Prayagraj's unique initiative, residents of government-run cow shelters will be treated to a special Diwali celebration, combining festivity with awareness and empowerment. Under the direction of Chief Development Officer Harshika Singh, key departments have been coordinating festivities across the district, including special worship ceremonies and community events at local cow shelters. The administration aims to promote public sensitivity towards cow protection, with over 32,000 cattle currently housed across 123 active cow shelters in Prayagraj.

Key Takeaways:

• The Prayagraj district administration has launched a unique Diwali initiative to combine festivity with awareness and empowerment for residents of government-run cow shelters.
• The celebrations will include cultural and awareness events, special worship ceremonies, and community events at local cow shelters.
• The initiative aims to promote public sensitivity towards cow protection and has instructed all 23 block development officers to host special events.
• The administration is promoting cow-based entrepreneurship by setting up stalls showcasing products made from cow derivatives crafted by self-help groups under the National Rural Livelihoods Mission.
• These products, including earthen lamps, idols, incense sticks, and cow dung cakes, will be available for purchase at stalls outside cow shelters during the celebrations.
• The Nirashrit Govansh Ashray Sthals (shelters for stray and destitute cattle) across the district will host unique Diwali celebrations.
• The Prayagraj district has 123 active cow shelters, including 3 large and 120 temporary ones, collectively housing over 32,000 cattle.
• The administration, led by Chief Veterinary Officer Dr SN Yadav, will illuminate the shelters with lamps and perform traditional rituals like gau-pujan (cow worship).
• SHG women, under the National Rural Livelihoods Mission, have prepared various dairy-based products for Diwali celebrations.

Statistics:

• Number of active cow shelters in Prayagraj: 123
• Collective number of cattle housed across the shelters: over 32,000
• Number of large cow shelters: 3
• Number of temporary cow shelters: 120
• Number of block development officers instructed to host special events: 23
• Number of years of experience of Chief Veterinary Officer Dr SN Yadav: unknown
• Number of products showcased at stalls (across all categories): unknown

Sources:

• HT Lucknow with permission from HT Digital Content Services