Sustainability of gaushalas: do size and patronage matter?

Abstract

To be viable as an institution in the long term, gaushalas (cow shelters) must meet the needs of society by operating continually and sustainably. This study of 21 gaushalas in Haryana finds that donations constitute 74.19% of their total receipts and government grants 6.47%; sales generate only 20%. Sustainability is poor; to improve it, gaushalas should be made autonomous by increasing their sources of income from processing the by-products, distributing indigenous germplasm and products, and catering to social needs. The government promotes gaushalas, but grants should be based on standard animal units and distributed regularly.