CM Yogi Adityanath Performs Govardhan Puja at Gorakhnath Temple, Highlights

Gorakhpur: A unique confluence of faith, tradition, and cow service was witnessed at Gorakhnath Temple on Monday morning as Chief Minister and Gorakshpeethadhishwar Yogi Adityanath performed Govardhan Puja at the temple's cowshed in accordance with Vedic rituals. Amid the chanting of Vedic mantras and an atmosphere of devotion, the ceremony reflected India's cultural heritage and Sanatan traditions. The Chief Minister offered prayers for the prosperity and well-being of the state and reiterated that cattle protection must be ensured under all circumstances.

CM Yogi Offers Prayers and Feeds Cows with His Own Hands

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath had arrived in Gorakhpur on Sunday, on the occasion of Diwali. On Monday morning, he performed the traditional Govardhan Puja at the Gorakhnath Temple cowshed. The cows and other cattle were bathed, decorated, adorned with floral garlands, and marked with tilak on their foreheads before the ritual worship. The Chief Minister personally fed the animals jaggery and bananas. He also called several cows and cattle by their names and affectionately petted them. The scene reflected his emotional connection and devotion towards cow service.

CM Extends Govardhan Puja Greetings, Emphasises Cattle Breed Improvement

 Following the ceremony, the Chief Minister extended heartfelt greetings and wishes to the people of Uttar Pradesh and cattle owners on Govardhan Puja. He stated that continuous efforts must be made not only for the protection of cows but also for the improvement and development of cattle breeds. He emphasised the importance of economically empowering cattle owners and farmers. The government's objective is to ensure the safety of cattle and make animal husbandry a source of increased income for farmers.

Over 16 Lakh Stray Cattle Housed in More Than 7,700 Gaushalas

The Chief Minister stated that the Uttar Pradesh government is undertaking extensive initiatives for the protection and development of cattle. More than 16 lakh stray cattle are being provided shelter through over 7,700 gaushalas across the state. The government aims to ensure that no cow is left abandoned on roads, farmers' crops are protected from damage, and every animal receives safe and dignified care. Various schemes are being implemented, including stray cattle shelters, the Participation Scheme, and government cattle protection centres in rural and urban areas.

Adopt a Cow and Receive 1,500 Monthly Assistance from the Government

 Highlighting the Participation Scheme, the Chief Minister explained that farmers who adopt stray cows from government gaushalas and take responsibility for their care receive financial assistance of 1,500 per cow per month. A farmer can adopt a maximum of four cows, making them eligible for additional assistance of up to 6,000 monthly. He also stated that arrangements have been made to provide one milch cow each to undernourished families from stray cattle shelters to ensure access to nutritious milk. Under this initiative, 1,500 per month is provided for the maintenance of each cow. According to the Chief Minister, these schemes have benefited farmers and needy families on a significant scale.

Animal Husbandry Department in Rural Areas, Kanha Upvans in Urban Areas

 The Chief Minister stated that cattle shelters in rural areas are managed through the Animal Husbandry Department, while Kanha Upvans are operated under the Urban Development Department in urban areas. These arrangements aim to provide safe shelter and proper care to stray cattle. He reiterated that the government intends to prevent cattle from roaming abandoned on roads and damaging farmers' crops. Instead, they should be housed in secure and dignified facilities. Stray cattle shelters have been established and are being operated with this objective.

Cow Symbolises Prosperity and Service in Indian Culture

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said that India is an agriculture- and animal husbandry-based country, where cows hold a special place in religious, social, and agricultural traditions. Govardhan Puja, celebrated the day after Diwali, represents this rich cultural heritage. He stated that a cow is not merely an animal but a symbol of prosperity and well-being in Indian tradition. Cow service is considered an important means of attaining the four Purusharthas—Dharma, Artha, Kama, and Moksha. He added that sincere efforts towards cattle protection and development help pave the way for happiness and prosperity.

CM Appeals to Families to Offer the First Roti to a Cow and the Last to a Dog

 The Chief Minister urged people to incorporate cow service into their daily lives in accordance with Indian traditions. He said that the customary practice in Indian culture is to offer the first roti to a cow and the last roti to a dog. If every family follows this tradition and sets aside a portion of its food for these animals, it would be a significant act of service. Those unable to keep cows at home can contribute financially to gaushalas run for social and charitable purposes. He emphasised that cow service is not the responsibility of any individual or organisation alone but a collective duty of society. The Chief Minister expressed confidence that greater public participation in cattle protection, development, and service would strengthen farmers' economic conditions and preserve India's glorious cultural traditions.