Kamdhenu Aayog calls for establishing 'Kamdhenu Chair' in universities, colleges

The Rashtriya Kamdhenu Aayog (RKA), a high-powered advisory body to help government develop programmes for conservation, sustainable development and genetic upgradation of indigenous breeds of cows, on Tuesday called for establishing ‘Kamdhenu Chair’ in colleges and universities to educate youth about indigenous cows.

Aayog Chairman Dr Vallabhbhai Kathiria stressed the need to educate youth about agriculture, health, social, economic and environmental importance of indigenous cows and urged Vice Chancellors of universities and Principals of colleges in the country to start ‘Kamdhenu Chair’ in their institutions.

In a national webinar on 'Kamdhenu Chair in Universities and Colleges' organized in association with UGC, AICTE and AIU, Dr Kathiria said there is a need to bring forth science related to indigenous cows. Education system should provide a platform for research on the benefits with modern scientific and process-oriented approach, he said.

Minister of State for Education Sanjay Dhotre, said India was enriched with many benefits of cows. He, however, regretted that under foreign rulers it was forgotten.

Asserting that the government would support this initiative he said research and practical implementation in the form of products needed to be showcased, established economically and presented with accurate scientific data in a time-bound manner.

The RKA has been established to organize animal husbandry on modern and scientific lines and take steps for preserving and improving breeds and prohibiting the slaughter of cows and calves and other milch and draught cattle. As per 2012 livestock census, India has 300 million bovine population. Out of this 191 million are cattle (cows) and 108.7 million buffaloes.