Indian Government to Penalize Dairy Farmers for Stray Cattle

The Indian government has announced its intention to take penal action against dairy farmers who allow their cattle to stray in public areas, in an effort to tackle the rising stray cattle menace. This decision comes as the number of stray animals continues to increase, causing traffic congestion and accidents on roads.

Director of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services, Nitin Naik, stated that the government would recover the entire amount availed under various schemes by the farmers and impound the cattle found unattended in public places. Schemes like Kamdhenu and Pashupalan are under scrutiny, and beneficiaries are required to ensure that livestock does not stray into public spaces.

The punitive measures are aimed at compelling dairy farmers to take better care of their animals. The stray cattle issue has been causing significant public safety concerns, leading to traffic mishaps, including fatal accidents.

The government has already been impounding stray cattle found on roads, but the persistent problem has necessitated stricter enforcement. Any beneficiary of milk incentives and dairy equipment schemes will face action if involved in such incidents, and non-compliant cattle will be sent to Ghaushallas, shelters for stray cattle.