Prayagraj: Naini Central Jail has introduced special tarpaulin-covered mattresses in its cow shelters to provide better resting conditions for 146 cattle housed on the prison premises and protect them from infections and illnesses caused by damp ground during the monsoon. The initiative is aimed at improving animal welfare while ensuring cleaner and more hygienic conditions in the gaushalas.Earlier, the cattle had to sit directly on the ground, increasing the risk of infections in their legs and other health problems, particularly during the rainy season when the ground remains wet. The newly arranged mattresses provide the cattle with a relatively dry and comfortable surface to rest on.Senior jail superintendent Vijay Vikram Singh said the initiative had been taken with the health and comfort of the cattle in mind. The jail administration has deployed 55 inmates for the regular care and upkeep of the cattle. Their responsibilities include providing green fodder and water to the animals, maintaining cleanliness in the cow shelters and carrying out other necessary tasks.Officials said the arrangement has helped improve the management of the gaushalas while also giving inmates an opportunity to engage in productive work and service.The jail administration has installed CCTV cameras across the premises, allowing officials to keep a continuous watch on the activities and ensure the safety of the cattle.Regular veterinary care has also been arranged. A team of veterinary doctors visits the cow shelters every third day to conduct health check-ups of all the cattle.
