Bhopal: In a move reflecting cultural values and rural development priorities, Madhya Pradesh has renamed its Animal Husbandry Department to Gau Palan Vibhag. Chief Minister Mohan Yadav announced the first Gaushala Sammelan in Bhopal, emphasizing the importance of Gaumata (holy cow) in the state's identity.

Key highlights:

  • Rs 505 crore allocated in the 2025–26 budget for cow welfare
  • Financial aid per cow doubled from Rs 20 to Rs 40/day
  • Modern shelters for 5,000+ stray cattle planned in Bhopal, Indore, Ujjain & Jabalpur
  • Rs 90 crore disbursed to Gaushalas; awards announced for exceptional cow service
  • Direct benefit transfer introduced for transparency in grants
  • New policy for self-sustaining Gaushalas with land and infrastructure support

Kamdhenu Yojana Revamped: The Kamdhenu Yojana, now restructured as the Ambedkar Kamdhenu Yojana, aims to boost dairy production and rural livelihoods.

  • Dairy units with 25–200 milch animals are eligible
  • Up to 33% subsidy for SC/ST & women, 25% for others
  • Financial assistance up to Rs 42 lakh per unit

With over 4 lakh cattle across 2,150 Gaushalas supported by the Gausamvardhan Board, the department’s renaming signals a major policy shift toward combining tradition, welfare, and economic opportunity.