Hoshiarpur: A meeting was held with MLA Brahm Shankar Jimpa, and a memorandum was submitted, demanding the immediate implementation of a scheme to provide financial assistance of ?61 per cow daily across all *gaushalas* in Punjab. Speaking on the matter, Swami Krishnanand Ji Maharaj—head of the *Go-Seva Mission*—stated that the Punjab government had formulated a plan in 2023 to provide this daily assistance for the cattle housed in the state's *gaushalas*.
He further explained that this decision was crucial for ensuring the smooth management of fodder, medical treatment, and general care for the sheltered cattle; however, despite the announcement, the scheme has not yet been implemented. He noted that many *gaushalas* in Punjab are grappling with a financial crisis. He added that implementing the scheme would also enable destitute and helpless cattle currently roaming the streets of Punjab to find safe shelter in *gaushalas*.
He pointed out that the 'Cow Cess' funds being collected by the Punjab government come entirely from the people of Punjab, without any direct financial contribution from the government itself. Furthermore, just as the governments of states like Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh provide financial support for cattle from their state exchequers, the Punjab government should also assist in the upkeep of these voiceless animals. He urged the Punjab government to implement the scheme without delay.
MLA Jimpa assured them that their demand would be placed before the government and expressed hope that a solution would certainly be found. Kuldeep Saini, Advocate Rakesh Marwaha, Harish Sharma, Krishan Dev Mahendru, Mahindrapal, Ram Yadav, Karun Sharma, Rajan Agnihotri, Vikas Goswami, Sadashiv Gupta, Jatinder Gupta, and others were present on the occasion.