NGT seeks information on policy for protection of indigenous cows

New Delhi, July 10: The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has expressed concern over dwindling population of indigenous breeds of cows across the country.

 

A bench headed by Justice Jawad Rahim asked states to inform it if they have formulated any scheme or policy for their protection.

The bench, also comprising Justice Raghuvendra S Rathore asked all the state governments to conduct a census and appraise it whether they provide any veterinary and medical assistance to these indigenous cows.

The bench further asked whether any local or other laws are available in their respective States for the prohibition of slaughtering of such indigenous cows.

The NGT had earlier noted that there was nearly 80 per cent decline in the animal population in Kerala from 2003 to 2012 and said such a condition may lead to the extinction of the species in the state.

The order came on a plea by a lawyer who had moved the Tribunal, claiming a looming threat of extinction of indigenous breeds of cattle in the country.

The tribunal earlier had issued a notice to the Agriculture Ministry on the plea which had also sought a nationwide ban on the slaughter of the cattle of indigenous breeds.