05/08/2026
Uttar Pradesh Goseva Aayog – A Remarkable Model of Compassionate Governance and Livestock Protection
Today, I had the privilege of visiting the office of the Uttar Pradesh Goseva Aayog in Lucknow. It was an honour to have an in-depth and highly inspiring discussion with the Chairman, Shri Shyam Bihari Gupta. Under his visionary leadership, Uttar Pradesh has undertaken truly exemplary initiatives in the field of livestock protection. I sincerely salute his dedication, humility, and outstanding leadership.
I also had the opportunity to interact at length with the Secretary, Dr. Prateek Singh. It was inspiring to learn that he has been serving the Goseva Aayog continuously since its very inception. His administrative excellence, consistency, and deep understanding of the subject have made a significant contribution to the Commission’s remarkable achievements.
Over the past nine years, Uttar Pradesh has established and operationalized 8,116 Animal Protection Centres, providing safe shelter, fodder, veterinary care, and protection to nearly 1.5 million abandoned and destitute livestock. This stands among the largest government-led livestock protection initiatives anywhere in the world.
It was particularly encouraging to learn that the Government of Uttar Pradesh provides a subsidy of ₹50 per animal per day through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). The State Government spends more than ₹2,000 crore annually on this programme, making it an outstanding example of compassion, good governance, and financial transparency.
Each member of the Goseva Aayog has been provided with an independent office, an official vehicle, and residential accommodation in Lucknow, enabling them to effectively oversee animal protection centres, monitor field implementation, formulate policies, and strengthen public participation throughout the State.
The Uttar Pradesh Goseva Aayog is far more than an institution managing animal protection centres. It is actively engaged in livestock conservation, veterinary care, fodder management, public awareness, coordination with local bodies, promotion of natural farming, and strengthening the rural economy. It represents a comprehensive governance model that can inspire every State in India.
My heartfelt congratulations and appreciation to Hon’ble Chief Minister Pujya Yogi Adityanath Ji.
Your leadership has demonstrated that when strong political will, efficient administration, and compassion come together, it is possible to provide safety, dignity, and long-term care to millions of vulnerable livestock.
I firmly believe that every State in India should carefully study this successful Uttar Pradesh model and adopt similar initiatives suited to their own needs.
Serving livestock is not merely an act of compassion—it is a powerful pathway towards environmental conservation, natural farming, rural prosperity, biodiversity preservation, and the protection of India’s rich cultural heritage.
— Dr. Girish Jayantilal Shah
Member, Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI)
Managing Trustee, Samast Mahajan