TTD sends cows to 195 temples across India under ‘Gudiko Gomata scheme’

Cows are being sent to temples all over India for daily ‘Go Puja’ under ‘Gudiko Gomata’ scheme. So far, cows and calves have been distributed for free to 195 temples across the country, said J. Shyamala Rao, Executive Officer (EO) of Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD).

He was participating in Sri Krishna Janmashtami (Gokulashtami) celebrations at Sri Venkateswara Gosamrakshanashala in Tirupati on Saturday (August 16). He also performed Go Puja and later witnessed cultural programmes such as Annamacharya Sankeertana, bhajan, kolatam and Harikatha.

Speaking on the occasion, he stressed the importance of cows protection and said there are 2,789 animals —including 1,827 cows, 962 bulls, seven elephants and five horses — at Gosamrakshanashala now.

Go Puja is performed daily at Tirumala, Tirupati and Tiruchanur goshalas, and Sapta Go Pradakshina Mandiram at Alipiri. Milk, curd, butter and ghee from the goshalas are used in Tirumala Srivari Temple rituals and sub-temples, as well as distributed to Annaprasadam centres and canteens.

The EO further said: “Through Embryo Transfer Technology, developed with Sri Venkateswara Veterinary University, 47 superior Sahiwal calves have been produced. With devotees’ cooperation, 539 native cows have already been brought to Gosamrakshanashala.”

“Plans are afoot to add another 500 heads of indigenous cattle breeds (Gir, Kankrej, Tharparkar and Red Sindhi) with public participation. At an investment of ₹12.25 crore, the TTD has set up S.V. Cattle Fodder Production Unit to ensure high-quality feed for the native breeds,” he added.

A committee of gosala experts gives advices on cattle health, nutrition, breeding and welfare, said the TTD official.