Cow science exam put off amid row

New Delhi, February 21

The much debated “online exam on cow science” proposed by the Rashtriya Kamdhenu Aayog, a government body set up to protect cows, will not be held this week.

The aayog, which comes under the Ministry of Fisheries and Animal Husbandry, has announced to postpone the online Kamdhenu Gau Vigyan Prachar Prasar Exam and competition, previously scheduled to be held on February 25. The aayog did not specify any rescheduled date for the exam. The deferment comes days after the UGC wrote to university vice-chancellors for “wide publicity to the test”, asking them to encourage students to take the exam, while specifying that it was voluntary.

The test was proposed for primary school students, secondary school students, college and university students, general public and NRIs.

Though around five lakh registrations were received from those interested in writing the test, the immediate reason for its postponement was not officially stated.

Sources said the UGC’s direct involvement in the matter led to objections with many professors questioning the development.

The exam had triggered a controversy as regards the subject material posted on the aayog website to help people prepare for it.

The material said Indian cow milk had properties to fight diabetes, joint pain, asthma, mental problems, while the Jersey (exotic) cow milk contained a chemical that caused many non-communicable diseases. Without citing any scientific research, the material posted by the aayog claimed the milk of Indian cow was yellow because it had traces of gold. Everyone taking the test was to get a certificate of appreciation. — TNS

No reason cited nor fresh date announced

• Five lakh persons had registered for the voluntary online exam on cow science to be held on February 25
• The aayog has neither specified any reason for postponing the exam, nor announced a fresh date for the same
• The subject material posted on the aayog website to help prepare for the exam is said to have triggered a row

Join Whatsapp Channel of The Tribune for latest updates.