Public participation important to support gaushalas: Anil Vij

Haryana’s Energy, Transport and Labour Minister Anil Vij distributed grant cheques to local gaushalas in Ambala on Saturday, reaffirming the government’s commitment to animal welfare while urging public participation in supporting stray cattle shelters.

Vij handed over cheques worth Rs 20.77 lakh to the Rambagh Gaushala Committee, Ambala Cantonment and Rs 3.11 lakh to Bhagwan Shri Parshuram Gaushala, Khatauli. He stated since 2014, the Haryana Government has provided financial assistance of Rs 413 crore for the upkeep of stray cattle across the state.

“The government continues to extend support to gaushalas, but public involvement is crucial too. This is not just the government’s responsibility, but a shared societal duty,” said the cabinet minister, addressing attendees during the event.

He noted the state government has increased the budget allocated to gaushalas and is also facilitating the establishment of new shelters to ensure no stray cattle remain on roads. He commended the voluntary service of gaushala committees and assured them of ongoing government assistance.

“When citizens actively support gaushalas, these institutions can become self-reliant and the problem of stray cattle can be resolved effectively,” Vij added.

Representatives of both gaushalas thanked the government for its consistent support, stating their concerns have always been addressed when brought to official attention.

Speaking to the media on the sidelines of the event, Vij also announced details of the ‘Deen Dayal Lado Laxmi Yojana’, a new social welfare scheme aimed at promoting the dignity and financial security of women in Haryana. The scheme is scheduled to launch on September 25, coinciding with the birth anniversary of Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya.

Under the initiative, eligible women in the state would receive monthly financial assistance of Rs 2,100. Vij stated the scheme honours a key promise from the government’s election manifesto and would operate with full transparency.

“To simplify access, beneficiaries will not need to visit any government office. A dedicated mobile application is being developed, allowing eligible women to apply directly from their smartphones. Once verified, benefits will be disbursed accordingly,” he said.