Scheme Name: Gosadan/ Gramya Gau Sevak Yojana
· Department: Animal Husbandry Department, Government of Uttarakhand
Utilization of ₹10 Crore Cess Fund (₹1 per Liquor Bottle) for Maintenance of Destitute Cattle
Government has created a dedicated corpus by levying a cess of ₹1 per liquor bottle, generating approximately ₹10 crore annually. This fund is exclusively utilized for the maintenance, feeding and welfare of destitute cattle under the scheme.
Problem Addressed and Objective
The growing population of destitute cattle has become a major challenge due to crop damage, road accidents and inadequate animal care.
Scheme Design and Key Interventions
· The cess fund is utilized through the Animal Husbandry Department for implementing the Gosadan/ Gramya Gau Sevak Yojana.
· Provision of maintenance assistance for destitute cattle.
· Veterinary treatment, vaccination and disease prevention.
· Engagement of Gramya Gau Sevaks for daily management.
· Monitoring and record maintenance to ensure transparency and accountability.
Financial Outlay and Expenditure
· For year 2025-26 ₹10 crore was allocated and utilized.
· For year 2026-27, also ₹10 crore allocated.
· Daily maintenance and feeding of cattle.
· Purchase of green and dry fodder.
· Support for Gramya Gau Sevaks and operational expenses. The dedicated funding mechanism ensures sustainable implementation without interruption.
Physical Outputs
· Improved feeding and nutrition of destitute cattle.
· Better shelter and sanitation facilities.
· Regular veterinary care and vaccination.
· Registration and monitoring of cattle under the scheme.
Employment and Livelihoods Generated
The scheme has created employment opportunities through the engagement of Gosaan/Gramya Gau Sevaks.
Ground-Level Outcomes and Impact
The dedicated cess fund has improved the overall management of destitute cattle.
Evidence and Success Stories
· Significantly improves the welfare of destitute cattle.
· Villages where the scheme is operational have reported improved cattle management, greater community participation.
Implementation Challenges and Corrective Action
Challenges include timely release of funds, adequate fodder availability, identification of all destitute cattle and effective monitoring.
Present Status and Way Forward
· The ₹10 crore cess fund has provided a sustainable financial base for the upkeep of destitute cattle under the Gramya Gau Sevak Yojana.
· Going forward, the Government aims to expand the scheme to additional villages, strengthen monitoring systems, ensure timely utilization of funds and further improve animal welfare through enhanced veterinary services and community participation.
· The dedicated cess-based funding model represents an innovative and sustainable approach to protecting destitute cattle while addressing rural challenges in Uttarakhand.
