Each week, alarming images of cattle loitering on Goa’s National Highways and local roads dominate newspapers and social media feeds. These pictures and videos highlight a pressing danger, not only to motorists but also to the cattle themselves, especially at night.
While the government has sought to promote cattle rearing as a viable solution to unemployment and a means of advancing the ‘Swayampurna Goy’ initiative, the harsh reality of managing these often-neglected animals is leading many to abandon the cause.
According to the 20th Livestock Census report published in 2019, and with the 21st currently underway, the situation is becoming increasingly concerning. The 20th census covered approximately 6.6 lakh villages and 89,000 urban wards nationwide, involving over 270 million households. It reported that Goa’s cattle population had risen to 60,247 from 57,480 in 2012. However, the number of stray cattle, which accounted for 12.5% (7,183) of the total in 2012, has soared to 21.8%, meaning over 13,133 cattle are now wandering the roads of Goa.
Nationally, stray cattle represented only 2.57% of the total cattle population in 2019, whereas Goa’s figure is more than eight times the national average. The rising presence of stray cattle has prompted the government to introduce the Goa Stray Cattle Management Scheme in 2013.
Despite these efforts, the situation appears to be deteriorating. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant highlighted the issue during the inauguration of a ‘gaushala’ at Raj Bhavan on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s birthday in 2022, announcing plans to establish 12 new cow shelters, one in each taluka, to address the problem. This year, he reiterated the necessity for all talukas to set up gaushalas and to formalise partnerships with local Panchayats to manage the increasing number of strays. He stressed that 25% of road accident fatalities in Goa are linked to stray cattle, advocating for commercial operations of gaushalas through the sale of by-products, while promising technical and scientific support for their success.
While the government’s intentions to provide shelter for these wayward animals are commendable and may offer some employment opportunities for local youth, the root causes of this growing issue remain unaddressed. The ongoing discussions among local governing bodies, panchayats, municipalities, and the State Assembly have yet to yield effective solutions to the dangers posed by stray cattle on the roads.
Traditionally, cattle were left to graze during the day, returning home by evening. However, as pastures and green spaces diminish, these animals now travel significant distances in search of food. The increasing cost of fodder further complicates matters for farmers, who often find the investment in feeding their cattle outweighs the returns. It’s a situation that invokes sympathy for the farmers, but more is needed than mere understanding.
Has the government conducted any surveys to uncover why cattle owners do not keep their animals secured? Why is it that when cattle are impounded and taken to government facilities or gaushalas, their owners often fail to reclaim them?
It is time for the government to move beyond emotional appeals and investigate the underlying causes of the stray cattle problem. With nearly 22% of Goa's cattle roaming the streets, contributing to 25% of road fatalities, the need for comprehensive action is clear.
The Goa government must consider appropriate legislation to not only provide safe spaces for these animals but also ensure safe roads for all citizens. Without decisive action, the cycle of danger and neglect will only continue to escalate, affecting both the community and the cattle they aim to protect.