Context:
To improve animal welfare, three cattle shelters in rural Varanasi—Madhumkhia, Bandepur, and Bhitkuri have become the first in Uttar Pradesh to be awarded the ISO 9001:2015 certification for quality management.
More on News:
- The certification recognizes excellence in cattle care, nutrition, hygiene, and overall management, reflecting the UP government’s commitment to enhancing cattle protection and shelter standards.
- Out of the 40 cattle shelters in the district, these three were chosen for targeted development as part of a comprehensive management strategy.
- Development was carried out with a long-term vision, elevating the shelters to meet international standards following an external evaluation, ISO certification was granted.
- As part of the pilot initiative, the shelters were upgraded with improved nutrition, heat-resistant infrastructure, and strong monitoring systems.
- The upgraded cattle shelters under the pilot initiative features:
- Improved nutrition, with cattle receiving both traditional fodder and protein-rich silage.
- To protect animals from extreme weather conditions, shelters are equipped with fans, coolers, water sprinklers, tin sheds, and green curtains with mist sprays.
- Strict hygiene protocols are followed, and a continuous supply of clean drinking water is maintained.
- The shelters are under constant surveillance through a CCTV control room monitored by the Chief Veterinary Officer and Block Development Officers.
- Veterinary staff are GIS-mapped, and their presence is regularly recorded to ensure accountability.
- Special enclosures have also been designated for the care of sick cattle.
- At the Bhitkuri shelter, additional sustainable practices like vermicomposting and biogas production are being introduced.
- The upgraded cattle shelters under the pilot initiative features:
- The government’s initiative seeks not only to address the issue of stray animals on the streets but also to ensure they have a safe and healthy environment.
- These ISO-certified shelters will now act as exemplary models for others across the state, setting a new standard for transparent and high-quality cattle management.