GAUSHALA: AVENUES FOR SELF-RELIANCE

name="Originator" content="Microsoft Word 12">< rel="File-List" href="file:///C:%5CUsers%5CRajaram%5CAppData%5CLocal%5CTemp%5Cmsohtmlclip1%5C01%5Cclip_filelist.xml">

India has more than 4000 Gaushalas (cow shelters) in its length and breadth. Most of these take care of the old and hapless cattle. However, interspersed amongst these, there are around 200 exemplary Gaushalas that show the path to developing the Indian cow – whatever its numbers and capacities – as a self-reliant animal. Self-reliance comes from using the cow-dung as source of fuel, bio-gas, clean energy and organic manure; cow-urine as bio-pesticide and raw-material for Panchgavya medicines; and, indigenous cow milk as a therapeutic and nutritious product with immunomodulatory strength for the human body. Through such value-addition (followed in many Gaushalas), utilization of bulls in the lean period (e.g. Kanpur Gaushala), genetic selection of young calves (e.g. Radhanpur Gaushala), many Gaushalas are now financially self-sustaining Exemplary Gaushalas

Several Gaushalas in the country have followed innovative methods for raising output from cows and bulls e.g. enhanced utilization of bull power for rural activities and electricity generation (Kanpur Gaushala Society, Kanpur, UP), production of bulls for export to other states (Shaladeri Gaushala, Haryana), production of Methane, LPG and liquid Carbon Dioxide from gobar gas (Sri Gobind Gaushala, Gorakhpur, UP), and production of panchgavya medicines, vermi-compost and bio-pesticide for use in natural and organic agriculture. By using such means many more Gaushalas have become self-reliant, notably among them are GoVigyan Anusandhan Kendra, Devlapar, Nagpur (MH), Sri Geeta Gaushala, Surbhi Gram, Dagmagpur (UP), Geeta Press Gaushala, Gorakhpur (UP), GoSamvardhan, Govansh Vikas evam Anusandhan Kendra, Deen Dayal Shodh Sansthan, Chitrakut (UP), Gayatri Tapobhumi, Shantikunj, Haridwar (UT), Bafna Go Seva Anusandhan Kendra, Jalgaon (MH), Adarsh Go Seva evam Anusandhan Kendra, Akola (MH), Keshav Srishti Gaushala, Bhayandar, Mumbai (MH), Kamdhenu Gram Vikas evam aarogyadham, Chakulia (JH), and Durgapura Gaushala, Jaipur (RJ). Large scale practice of such value additions would also raise farmers’ income from livestock and his acceptance to maintain the cows, retain the breeds and help in conservation.
Utilization of Bulls

Under the Indian scenario and over the ages, a cow has developed more as a mother of bull calf rather than as a producer of milk. The recent increase in mechanization of agriculture has reduced in the requirement of bulls. In plain areas, and with partial mechanization in hilly and remote areas, bulls are required for only a few months in a year and the farmers find it difficult to maintain the bulls for a whole long year. Noting this, Kanpur Gaushala have developed a system to use the bulls for village activities like lifting water, chaff cutting, and even generation of electricity like charging the inverter for subsequent use. The bulls can be put to gainful use for 3-4 hours every day during the lean season. As observed in villages, bullocks are made to walk in a circular path (having a diameter of about 6 meters), thereby the bullocks can generate 1½ to 2 RPM (revolutions per minute) which is sufficient for some village activities like crushing sugarcane or lifting water from shallow wells. Such low RPM, however, is not sufficient for other demanding rural agricultural operations presently carried out by diesel power. In order to raise the RPM, Kanpur Gaushala has taken a lead and developed appropriate gear-instruments which raised the output to 400 RPM that is sufficient for operations like pumping out water from deep wells, running ‘atta-chakki’ etc. Through mechanical means, the output was further raised to 1800 RPM to generate and store electricity in ‘inverter’ for subsequent use. Some other Gaushalas have implemented the technology and raised the utility of bulls. This above scheme raises the hope of utilizing the bullocks in their lean period (when bullocks are not required for field operations and have to be fed by the farmers without any output) and reducing the dependence on the already rationed pole-electricity. At present around 57% of the country’s land is cultivated by bulls including the entire hilly and remotely located areas. Enhancement in the utility of bulls and increased benefit to farmer would raise the demand for bulls and Gaushalas would be benefitted by meeting the demand. Use of bulls is environment friendly, the dung/Urine are used for organic farming and there is reduced dependence on fossil fuel. According to an estimate (Patel, 2005), India will need 41 million draft animals in 2020 and 35 million in 2060. Gaushalas can gear up to meet the demand and gain self-sufficiency in the process.

Panchgavya

Panchgavya is the product prepared from five ingredients all taken from indigenous cow: milk, curd, ghee, dung and urine. The product has variously been shown to be effective in human ailments (Chauhan 2001-2007). The cow urine distillate has been found to increase immunity in mice. It also increases the phagocytic activity of macrophages and secretion of interleukin 1 and 2. Recently, the cow urine has also been granted U.S. patent for its synergistic properties with antibiotics and as bio-enhancer. Indian scientists have obtained US patent (No. 6410059 dated 25.6.2002) on a pharmaceutical composition comprising cow urine distillate (Dhama et al.2005). Another US Patent was granted for anti-cancerous properties of cow urine (Patent No. 6896907, dated May 24, 2005). Several Gaushalas are engaged in preparation of Panchgavya products and maintain track record of their effective use on patients. Some notable Gaushalas are:

1. Kanpur Gaushala Society, Kanpur
2. Go-Vigyan Anusandhan Kendra, Devlapar, Nagpur
3. Keshav Srishti Gaushala, Bhayandar, Mumbai
4. Adarsh Go Seva evam Anusandhan Kendra, Akola
5. Deen Dayal Shodh Sansthan, Chitrakut
6. Bafna Go Seva Anusandhan Kendra, Jalgaon
7. Kamdhenu Gram Vikas evam aarogyadham, Chakulia
8. Sri Krishan Gaushala, Durg
9. Gaushala Society, Panipat
10. Madhav GoVigyan Anusandhan Kendra, Bhilwara
11. Durgapura Gaushala, Jaipur

By preparing Panchgavya products and other positive means, many of these Gaushalas are now self-reliant. It is high time certification and standardization for the preparation of Panchgavya medicines is made available so that small and big Gaushalas can take to preparing Panchgavya products and gain self-sufficiency.

Indigenous Cow Milk For Therapeutic Values

Indigenous cow milk is known to have higher therapeutic values. Vechur cow milk is in demand to meet the medical requirement of patients in Kerala. Several studies have confirmed that indigenous cow milk is a rich source of Omega-3 fatty acids, has higher CLA (Conjugated Linoleic Acid), and MDGi – a protein that suppresses cancer. It also has an agent (Stron-tn) that provides protection from atomic radiations. It has higher levels of certain cerebrocides that increase human brain power, sharpen intellect, give swiftness to body and stability of emotions. Milk from indigenous breed cows is of much higher value than the price it is tagged with. There is a need to change the present system of pricing milk based on fat percentage (which favours buffaloes) and ignores the above therapeutic qualities of indigenous cow milk. Gaushalas maintain indigenous cows and provide cow milk for use as a medicine. A nearby Gaushala is sometimes the only source of indigenous cow milk.
Cow Dung For Fuel, Manure & Energy

Cow dung is a valuable by-product and has multifarious uses. It keeps environment free from pollution, clears air of germs and does not allow any radiation effect. It turns rotting vegetation from spoiling and turns it into compost. Covering of seeds with dung before sowing improves their germination. In general, cow dung is used as (i) Fuel (in the form of ‘upla’) (ii) Manure (compost & vermin-compost) and (iii) For the production of Bio-Gas, Methane, CNG etc.

(i) Cattle produce dung-ultimately used as fuel-worth Rs. 2000 crore per annum in India, and saves on the foreign exchange required for import of petroleum products. Dung as fuel meets the local energy requirements, and saves the expenditure on fuel material. Cow dung has medium burning temperature which is convenient for retention of nutrients. In addition to the domestic front, ‘Upla’ are now plenty in use in industries as well. In ponds, cow dung neutralizes pond’s acidity. In recent years, strong bricks have been made by using cow dung mixed with mud (e.g. Kanpur Gaushala).
(ii) Cattle produce dung - ultimately used as manure - worth Rs. 2500 crore every year. Use of cow dung as manure reduces the requirement on chemical fertilizers while, at the same time, contributes to eco-friendly organic agriculture and natural farming. Vermi-composting improves the manure-quality and availability of nutrients to plants. Cow dung has specifically been used to prepare amrit-pani whereby 5 kg indigenous cow dung is sufficient to meet manurial requirements of one hectare. Other forms of value added manure/compost (like Nadep Khad, Matka Khad) are also prepared in Gaushalas. It is claimed that such manure prepared from the indigenous cow dung is superior in quality. Manure supports earthworms grow and the nutrients in it are in an acceptable form for the rootlets of plants.
(iii) Cow dung is used in the preparation of bio-gas which finds various uses like fuel and light. Recently, bio-gas has been isolated into methane and CO2 (Gorakhpur Gaushala). Bio-gas is passed through cylinders to cleanse H2S gas and water vapour, and then, methane and CO2 are separated out through chemical means. Methane is compressed and bottled in cylinders that are put to use for running auto and car. The liquefied CO2 is a value added product having industrial use. CNG has also been prepared from Bio-Gas and used in vehicles like a car (Jamnagar Gaushala).
Cow Urine as Bio-Pesticide

Importance of cow urine has been better understood only in the recent years even though it has been mentioned in Sushruit Samhit and Ashtang Sangrah. Through the immuno-modulatory properties of the cow-urine (Chauhan, 2007), it cures human ailments and has the capacity to enhance body’s immunity. It is effective against tuberculosis and cancer and enhances the impact of vaccinations. It has been shown to act as blood purifier, cures leucorrhoea, cleans intestines, removes deposits, cures itching, eczema, psoriasis, asthma, giddiness, cough, urinary problems etc. It also prevents free radical formation and postpones ageing. It has bactericidal activity, activates macrophages and augments engulfment power. Cow urine has copper as a constituent that acts as antidote and kills drug resistant bacteria & viruses. It also has uric acid and dissolves stones in kidney/gall-bladder. Use of cow urine raises immune-potentiating property and also reduces immune suppressive effects of chemical pesticides. In agriculture, it is a valuable bio-pesticide, and unlike the chemical pesticides, it doesn’t accumulate in food chain. Proper use of cow urine in agriculture and human health will be all the more important in view of WHO observation that by 2020AD the microorganisms will be resistant to the existing antibiotics.
Cattle Improvement And Conservation

Each Gaushala – it has been revealed recently– has some 10 percent (10P) indigenous cows that are local purebreds (or closely so). These purebreds can be perpetuated to raise purity in the Gaushala by keeping them in a separate shed (10P Barn) and ensuring same breed bull for them. In a recent study (NBAGR, 2006), certain Gaushalas have been noted as potential centres for breed conservation and improvement. In a set of large sized Gaushalas in four states (Haryana, UP, Gujarat and Rajasthan) it was recorded that 22% of the total stock in the Gaushalas was purebred belonging to Sahiwal, Kankrej, Tharparkar or Hariana breeds. It was estimated that around a thousand Gaushalas in the country have the capacity to conserve the local indigenous breeds. Moreover, the selection of progeny in the 10P barn can be directed to raising milk yield to meet the requirements of the burgeoning human population in the country. The selected male calves/future bulls from the 10P Barn can be gainfully used in the remaining of the Gaushala, surrounding smaller Gaushalas and in the surrounding villages for genetic improvement of cattle.
Epilogue

Indigenous cow milk has medicinal and therapeutic qualities, cow-urine is useful as bio-pesticide and has immuno-modulatory and useful medicinal properties, cow-dung has several uses notably manure and energy-source, bullocks can be used in the lean period for rural activities and electricity-generation. Gaushalas are showing path breaking methods for enhanced utilization of cow products and by-products, and becoming self-reliant. Moreover, the indigenous cow system is rural oriented, the improvements and benefits will accrue to the rural system in an eco-friendly manner.

Thousands of bulls, cows and calves are brutally slaughtered everyday in this sacred land of India which include strong and healthy ones also.


Laws, rules and regulations are violated at every step during the process. Slaughter houses run by municipalities are meant for ending those animals' life whose survival is not good for them and who are totally not fit to survive. They are meant to give deep sleep to these animals, so that they can die peacefully.

Unfortunately, today municipalities under Government's control have converted them into meat factories killing innocent and healthy ones too with different procedure, so that they can earn better price for their blood, meat or beef.

Cows, bulls and calves are among those killed very brutally. Their painful journey starts right from pickup from the original point by butcher/transporter who carries them to the slaughter house. This is the first step of law violation. The animals are transported in cruelly overcrowded lorries. Many are dead, mangled and wounded although the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act specifies the space provided per cow should be no less than 2 square meters, and specifically, the national law allows no more than six cattle per lorry. These laws, too, are ignored More details.

By the time they are delivered at Slaughter House, they are mangled and wounded badly. Many of them die in transit. Probably this cruel procedure is done purposely, so that the Slaughter House people have excuse to declare them unfit for living and therefore certifying for slaughter.

One can not imagine what kind of pain our mother goes through at that time. It is shame on humanity that the whole life she feeds her milk in so many ways to us and one day she is handed over to slaughter houses for killing her and supplying her blood, bones, skin and beef etc. to various profit making companies for sake of money involving a huge amount of corruption.

Their incessant cries and screams displaying the intolerable pain, neglected by man-made laws, demands justice from the civilized human society that currently treats them no better than commodities More details. People who are involved in this business do not know cultural heritage of this Shri Krishna's sacred land. We can not in our life time repay the cost of milk fed to us by our first mother (who gave us birth) and second mother (our beloved cow).

Whole of life our cow mother feeds us as well as our new generation with her milk and once she becomes old and hence not able to produce milk she is sent to slaughter house for a painful end on the ground that she has become old and sick and is of no use now.

Can we do the same thing with our old mother who gave us birth. One would say No. Then why with cow mother. We are forgetting the message of love (prem) taught to us by Lord Shri Krishna, who is the true lover of cows. The pain does not end here.

Today our dairy industry on the other hand gives so much pain to cows and buffalos to get more and more milk using so called modern techniques. Find in detail how our cow mother and buffalos are being treated by today's dairy industry.

Every year we celebrate Janmashtmi and decorate our temples and do pooja but we forget our cow mother crying at slaughter houses seeking our help in saving her life. At one side, we are allowing our cows to be slaughtered and on the other side we are celebrating Lord Shri Krishna's birthday.

Do you think this is fair ? Every body knows that Lord Shri Krishna loved cows a lot. Lord Shri Krishna will truly accept our pooja on the day, when we totally stop killing cows.

There is a strong need to totally ban on cows, bulls and calves slaughter immediately repeat immediately in India. Now one may ask why only cow, why not goat, pig or chicken. Are they not killed brutally or they have no feeling of pain? It is a genuine question to be asked.

We all of us know that there is always a pain when you hurt anybody. So all of them feel pain. Stop killing and eating them. Just for the sake of taste, we are not supposed to brutally kill any body. Give everybody your love (PREM) which automatically brings non-violence (AHINSA). Be vegetarian and live happy and joyful life and let others live the same.

There has to be a start for any initiative. Be aware of some facts-more details. Let us start with a ban on slaughter of our sacred mother cow. Love all and let every one enjoy on our sacred land. Everyone has right to live happily.

It is our country. We select the ruling Government here with majority. A majority of people in India is always in favour of complete ban on slaughtering of cows, bulls and calves. Even if we look at the economic front in our country, we find that more than 70% of India's population depends directly or indirectly on cows more details. Its killing means a murder of our rural economy. Then all efforts of rural development are wasted.

Our rural economy depends upon cows. It is suggested that all these animals on their natural death be cremated on Electric Machines which will help us to fight global warming in future. They also have the right to a peaceful end. It is expected from our Government to make at least one Electric Cremation Machine in each district.

Instead of killing our mother cows, Government of India must encourage our dairy farms spread all over India involved in producing various products based on bye products like Cows' Urine, Dung(GOBAR) and milk, to increase their production.

Education on Gou Palan to farmers, villagers and Gou Palaks must be added in the programmes being already run for Praur Shiksha in the country by our Government. Government must listen to their problems and provide them better infrastructure, facilities and support so that this one of our most potential fields flourish. The cow owners who are financially poor need more attention to be supported in this respect, so that they are not forced to hand over their cows to be slaughtered.

Instead of making new Gaushala, people can buy land for Gochar for existing Gaushalas for feeding the cattle. This will be a big solution to natural feeding problem for the cows. So many people have already come forward this way. A lot more is still to be done.

Our farmers must switch to organic fertilizers based on cow dung (GOBAR). This can easily be done at their level itself. They can easily be trained to make organic fertilizer from GOBAR and cow urine. This way there will be an encouragement to our farmers to become GO PALAK instead of making so many new Gaushalas in villages resulting cow slaughter later on for one reason or the other.

Now one major question arises. How to care the cows when they are unable to produce milk or become old. Ours is the land of Lord Shri Krishna and we all are attached to emotional sentiments and our family responsibilities, where we do care our family till the end of life. If we educate ourselves and others to do SEVA of such cows, there are so many ways open.

Our initiative is important. Even at the stage when cow is unable to give milk, she is willing to give you lot i.e. valuable urin and gobar. A big potential is ahead based on cow's urine and gobar in our rural areas such as GOBAR Gas, GOBAR products like Dhoop Battis, Soap, Pesticides, Insecticides, Medicines, Organic Fertilizers based on urine and GOBAR etc. There is a need to take initiative by cow owners and our Government.

We also request our Sants who perform their PRAVACHANS all over the country to highlight importance of Cow and Cow SEVA in their PRAVACHANS and guide people to follow the path of LOVE (PREM) shown by Lord Shri Krishna on this sacred land.

The medicines made of Cow Urine, GOBAR and Ghee are amazing and very effective. We must encourage use of these medicines and take initiative to encourage dairy farms producing these medicines. You may view some of them here.

Before it is too late, join together now and make a loud appeal to stop slaughtering and imposing a complete ban on cow slaughter and exporting cows from our country. Make representation to our Government of India whom we have selected.

In your area, if you see any injustice to cows, please do not hesitate to immediately report to the concerned authorities.