Gorakhpur: Stressing that cow protection is among the UP govt’s top priorities, animal husbandry and dairy development minister Dharmpal Singh on Monday said the state is taking extensive measures to safeguard cattle, while launching a sharp political attack on the Samajwadi Party, claiming it would be ‘finished’ in the 2027 Assembly elections.Addressing a press conference at the Annexe building in Gorakhpur, Singh said nearly 14 lakh cattle are being cared for in about 7,500 cow shelters across the state. He reiterated that ensuring proper shelter, fodder and healthcare for stray cattle remains a key focus area for the government led by Yogi Adityanath.Targeting SP chief Akhilesh Yadav, the minister alleged the party lacks a development agenda and continues to rely on caste-based politics. “People now want development and have risen above caste considerations,” he said, adding that law and order has improved with criminals being effectively curbed.Singh outlined steps such as setting up fodder banks in every cow shelter, appointing nodal officers for monitoring, and ensuring strict action in cases of negligence or cattle deaths. He also warned of action against those abandoning livestock and encroaching on grazing land.With summer approaching, officials have been directed to ensure adequate fodder, water and heat protection, while promoting indigenous breeds and biogas production to boost rural sustainability. TNN
