Cows can't be called 'stray' in Rajasthan, state announces new term

Rajasthan's Animal Husbandry and Dairy Minister, Joraram Kumawat, announced a significant change in terminology for stray cows during a debate in the Rajasthan Assembly on Wednesday night. The term 'stray' will no longer be used; instead, 'nirashrit' (destitute) will be employed to describe these animals.

Kumawat emphasized the state government's commitment to improving the economic self-reliance of cattle rearers. He stated, "The state government is committed to making cattle rearers economically self-reliant by developing valuable animal wealth and increasing livestock production." He also highlighted the government's efforts in protecting and promoting cows and bulls.

Funding and New Schemes

The assembly passed the grant demands for the Animal Husbandry and Fisheries Department by voice vote. Kumawat further revealed that the Chief Minister Animal Husbandry Development Fund will be established with a provision of Rs 250 crore. Additionally, the Mukhyamantri Mangala Pashu Bima Yojana will extend to include other animals beyond dairy animals.


To support livestock farmers, the state will organize animal fairs in all districts in a phased approach, according to Kumawat.

Meanwhile, a pickup van driver suspected of smuggling cows was fatally shot by another group of alleged bovine smugglers in Deeg district, Rajasthan, according to police reports. Superintendent of Police (SP) Rajesh Kumar Meena stated that the incident occurred around 2 am. The police had received information that two men were transporting cows in a pickup van.

As police pursued the vehicle, the occupants fired at the pursuing officers. Meena noted that at a distance, two additional suspected cow smugglers were involved in handling the bovines. Observing the disturbance, they also began shooting at the pickup van.

"A bullet struck the driver of the van," SP Meena confirmed, adding that the driver succumbed to the gunshot wound.

The deceased was identified as Sandeep, while his companion, Naresh, was apprehended. The police also rescued two cows from the vehicle. The other two suspected smugglers managed to escape.