In a remarkable achievement, the Kanha Gaushala, operated by the Moradabad Municipal Corporation, has emerged as Uttar Pradesh’s first self-sustaining and ISO-certified gaushala, setting a benchmark in animal welfare and sustainable practices. Located in Moradabad, this pioneering facility is not only a sanctuary for over 700-750 stray and destitute cows but also a model of innovation and self-reliance. The gaushala has garnered attention for its exceptional care for animals and its unique approach to generating revenue through eco-friendly products. Here’s an in-depth look at the facilities provided to the animals and the strategies that have made this gaushala a shining example of self-sufficiency.
Exceptional Care for Animals
The Kanha Gaushala is designed to provide top-notch care to its bovine residents, most of whom are stray or abandoned. The infrastructure is meticulously planned to ensure the animals’ well-being, with facilities that rival those of a well-managed human institution:
- Shelter and Hygiene: The gaushala boasts a robust infrastructure with clean and spacious shelters. To combat the intense summer heat, the facility is equipped with fans, coolers, and water sprinklers to maintain a comfortable environment for the animals. The floors are lined with rubber sheets to protect the cows from hot surfaces, and the roofs are covered with thick layers of straw (parali) to keep the interiors cool.
- Nutrition and Water: The gaushala ensures a steady supply of nutritious green fodder and wet husk to keep the animals healthy. Fresh, cool drinking water is provided regularly, and the cows are bathed daily to maintain hygiene and prevent heat stress. These measures ensure that the animals remain hydrated and comfortable, especially during the scorching summer months.
- Medical Care: A dedicated team of staff works round-the-clock to monitor the health of the animals. Currently, six cows are receiving medical treatment for various ailments, with veterinary care available on-site. The gaushala’s commitment to animal welfare extends to ensuring that sick or injured animals receive prompt attention.
- Community Engagement: The gaushala also provides opportunities for community service, allowing locals to participate in the care of the animals. This fosters a sense of responsibility and strengthens the bond between the community and the gaushala.
Self-Sustainability Through Innovative Products
What sets the Kanha Gaushala apart is its self-sustaining model, which has made it a trailblazer in Uttar Pradesh. The gaushala generates revenue by converting cow dung and urine into valuable products, reducing dependency on external funding and creating a sustainable ecosystem:
- Cow Dung Products: The gaushala produces a range of items from cow dung, including go-kasht (cow dung logs used as fuel), diyas (traditional lamps), and havan samagri (materials for Vedic rituals). These products are sold at stalls across Moradabad, with go-kasht also being used at local cremation grounds, providing an eco-friendly alternative to traditional firewood.
- Vermi-Compost and Other By-Products: While the Moradabad gaushala has not yet established a large-scale vermi-compost unit like its counterpart in Saharanpur, it is exploring similar initiatives to produce organic fertilizers and other products like phenyl from cow urine. These efforts align with the broader trend of gaushalas becoming self-reliant through innovative waste management.
- ISO Certification: The gaushala’s commitment to quality management and operational excellence earned it the prestigious ISO 9001 certification, making it the first in Uttar Pradesh to achieve this distinction. This certification reflects the high standards of care and operational efficiency maintained at the facility.
Leadership and Community Pride
The success of the Kanha Gaushala is a source of pride for Moradabad. Municipal Commissioner Divyanshu Patel has emphasized that the gaushala’s ISO certification is a testament to the dedicated efforts of the staff and the community. He noted that the facility’s achievements pave the way for further improvements in animal care and infrastructure. Additional Municipal Commissioner Ajit Kumar highlighted the gaushala’s self-operated model and its role in fostering community participation.
The gaushala’s recognition has also inspired other facilities across Uttar Pradesh to adopt similar self-sustaining models. For instance, Saharanpur’s Maa Shakambhari Kanha Upvan Gaushala, another standout example, has gained acclaim for its large-scale vermi-compost unit and has been praised by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.
Challenges and Contrasts
While the Moradabad Kanha Gaushala is a beacon of excellence, not all gaushalas in Uttar Pradesh have met similar standards. A recent controversy in Meerut’s Kanha Gaushala highlighted issues of neglect, with a viral video showing poor conditions and allegations of animal cruelty. This incident underscores the importance of consistent oversight and adherence to high standards, as exemplified by Moradabad’s facility.
A Model for the Future
The Kanha Gaushala in Moradabad is more than just a shelter for cows; it is a symbol of innovation, sustainability, and compassion. By combining state-of-the-art animal care with revenue-generating initiatives, the gaushala has set a precedent for others to follow. Its ISO certification and self-sustaining model demonstrate that animal welfare and environmental sustainability can go hand in hand. As Uttar Pradesh continues to prioritize animal welfare, the Moradabad Kanha Gaushala stands as a shining example of what can be achieved through dedication and forward-thinking strategies.