New Delhi: In a major decision on the auspicious occasion of Janmashtami, the Yogi government has directed officials to ensure the protection of stray cattle within the next 3 months in the state. The directive assumes significance in view of the recent incidents related to stray cattle in districts like Agra, Sultanpur, and Pilibhit. The government has directed officials to ensure that such incidents are not repeated in the state.

It is worth noting that government data still indicates the presence of approximately 2.5 to 3 lakh stray cattle in the state. In response, the Yogi government has issued instructions for the protection of all these cattle.

Instructions were issued to prevent the recurrence of such incidents

The Chief Secretary, Durga Shankar Mishra, stated in a meeting that protection of stray cattle should be ensured within the next 3 months and that there should be no repetition of incidents against cattle in any part of the state. He further stated that panchayats should make arrangements for nutritious food for protected cattle in urban areas. He also instructed officials to ensure the protection of stray animals in the Bundelkhand region by September 15.

The Chief Secretary further said, “In the districts like Hardoi, Sitapur, Rae Bareilly, Pratapgarh, Fatehpur, Badaun etc., a large number of cattle roam on the banks of rivers and roads. Even in the cities, cattle roam near the markets and in the colonies. The responsibility of the Municipal Commissioner and the Executive Officer should be determined regarding these cattle.”

The officials were also directed to send information regarding establishment of new temporary cow shelters immediately while district magistrates (DM) to sub-divisional magistrates (SDM) were instructed to ensure continuous monitoring and effective use of the portal.

Run Cattle Catcher Operation in rural areas

The Chief Secretary mentioned that there are thousands of stray cattle roaming along the riversides and instructed officials to run ‘Cattle Catcher Operation’ in rural areas to catch such animals. He directed officials to provide tractor-mounted cattle catchers and purchase tractors. He said that the district magistrate should run the operation by forming a special squad. “Special teams of inter-departmental personnel should be formed on the highway. These teams should have a team leader, staff, equipment, and financial arrangements”, he added.

Furthermore, the Chief Secretary instructed officials to carry out the necessary actions and not conceal the figures during the operation.