On 28 March, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel presented 76 native Gir cows to 76 under‑privileged women from tribal, widowed and economically weaker backgrounds in Ahmedabad’s Bhandarkar Nagar. The event, part of the Gau Matrushakti Sanskriti Namo Vandan programme, aims to turn animal welfare into a vehicle for rural women’s financial independence.
The initiative, organised by the Sitavan Gir Gaushala in Vinzol, was coordinated by Daskroi MLA Babubhai Jamnadas Patel and his family, with key logistical support from Vaibhav Patel. The gaushala, a local cow sanctuary, will supply feed, mineral supplements and health records, ensuring a steady supply of milk for the recipients.
Selection followed months‑long field surveys that identified households capable of caring for a cow and possessing the basic infrastructure needed for dairy farming. A veterinary team vaccinated and certificated each Gir, and the gaushala will provide regular health check‑ups and training on milk‑production techniques.
Patel, stressing cattle’s importance to rural economies, said the hand‑out of cows aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of inclusive development and will help lift the women’s families out of poverty. He also announced the nationwide launch of the Seva Sankalp Abhiyan on 17 September, commemorating Modi’s 25 years in public service.
Citizens across Gujarat were urged to light a lamp at 7 pm on Thursday as part of the Ashirwad No Deevo initiative, with the state promising continued support for the families through veterinary aid and milk‑processing training. The program will be monitored over the coming year to gauge its impact on household incomes.