Without the conservation of the cow, natural farming cannot progress”
Inauguration of the 'Govardhan Goshala Konkan' Project
Goshala project will be a guiding force for farmers
– Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde
Sindhudurg , May 11 – Conservation of indigenous cows is essential for the prosperity of farmers, and without conserving the cow, natural farming cannot gain momentum, stated Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. He was speaking at the inauguration of the 'Govardhan Goshala Konkan' project, set up on 70 acres at Karanje–Satamwadi (Taluka Kankavli) in Sindhudurg district.
The event was graced by Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, former Chief Minister and MP Narayan Rane, Minister for Fisheries and Port Development and Guardian Minister Nitesh Rane, former Ministers and MLAs Deepak Kesarkar and Ravindra Chavan, MLA Nilesh Rane, District Collector Anil Patil, Chairperson of the Sindhudurg Shikshan Prasarak Mandal Neelamatai Rane, Ravindra Pathak, Pramod Jathar, and other dignitaries.
The Govardhan Goshala Konkan project has been implemented through the Late Tatu Sitaram Rane Trust, with the aim of placing the contribution of the cow at the center of village development.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Fadnavis said that among all goshalas in the country, the one in Konkan stands out as the best. A new economy can be built through such initiatives. Farmers can receive skill-based training at this goshala. Facilities for various production units and agro-livestock tourism centers have also been developed here. The cow holds great importance in our culture. A goshala is not just about protecting cows, but it is a social, economic and environmentally conscious revolution. Such projects are necessary for village development. Sindhudurg is rich in natural resources and projects like this will provide employment to locals and promote sustainable farming and natural lifestyles.
Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde described the initiative as a model project for cow conservation. He stated that it would serve as a guiding and instructive example for farmers. In Konkan — a region rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage — this project will play a vital role in cow conservation. The primary goal of the project is to ensure the prosperity of farmers. The foundation for a white revolution is being laid in Konkan and local milk collection will also be facilitated, giving a boost to the dairy business, he expressed.
In his introductory speech, MP Narayan Rane shared detailed information about different breeds of cows, their characteristics, and the beneficial products derived from milk, dung and urine. He said the project's goal is to increase the income of local farmers, provide quality education to children, develop capable officers from the district, and generate overall prosperity. He appealed to the youth in the district to participate in agri-allied businesses through cow conservation.
Former Minister and MLA Ravindra Chavan extended his best wishes to the project. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis was welcomed with a shawl, coconut and a cow replica (as a token from the goshala). MLA Nilesh Rane welcomed the attendees, while Minister Nitesh Rane delivered the vote of thanks. Various contributors to the establishment of the Govardhan Goshala were honored by the Chief Minister on this occasion.