Use Of Word 'Stray' For Cows Insulting, Call Them 'Destitute': Rajasthan Govt's New Order

The minister has said that "the state government is committed to making cattle rearers economically self-reliant by "developing valuable animal wealth and increasing livestock production"

The term 'nirashit' (destitute) will be used to refer to stray cows in Rajasthan (Representative Image: X)

Cows and other bovines will not be referred to as 'strays' in Rajasthan, as the term is 'insulting' and 'inappropriate', according to a new order passed by the state government. As per the new order, from now on, the use of words like 'helpless' or 'destitute would be encouraged for cows and other bovines that are roaming on their own.

BREAKING | राजस्थान में भजनलाल सरकार ने लिया बड़ा फैसला, गाय को 'आवारा' कहने पर लगाई रोक@Aayushinegi6 | https://t.co/smwhXUROiK#Rajasthan #Cow #Government #LatestNews pic.twitter.com/p5NI0XJAsu

— ABP News (@ABPNews) October 28, 2024

This came after state Minister Joraram Kumawat, while replying to a debate on the grant demand of the Animal Husbandry and Fisheries Department in the Rajasthan Assembly, in July, said that cows in Rajasthan will not be called 'stray' and that the term 'nirashit' (destitute) will be used to refer to the animal, news agency PTI reported.

The minister has said that "the state government is committed to making cattle rearers economically self-reliant by "developing valuable animal wealth and increasing livestock production". "The state government is also working sensitively for the protection and promotion of cows and bulls," he added.

Following the discussion, the assembly had passed the grant demands of the department by voice vote. Kumawat has also informed that the Chief Minister Animal Husbandry Development Fund will be constituted in the state with a provision of Rs 250 crore.

"Additionally, Mukhyamantri Mangala Pashu Bima Yojana will be started by including other animals along with dairy animals...For the convenience of livestock farmers, animal fairs will be organised in all districts in a phased manner," he had said in the assembly.

The Opposition Congress had earlier alleged that the BJP government in Rajasthan is merely paying lip service towards the state of cows rather than doing anything substantial for their welfare.