The Himachal Pradesh government has disbursed ₹14.68 crore under the Gopal Yojana for the welfare of stray and destitute cattle during the financial year 2025-26. This funding is crucial as farmers have been facing significant crop losses due to stray cattle damaging their fields. To address these challenges, the monthly maintenance grant for cows in registered shelters has been increased from ₹700 to ₹1,200, effective October 1, 2025. The initiative aims not only to improve the care and management of these animals but also to enhance road safety, as stray cattle contribute to numerous accidents. The government has also proposed additional measures in the Budget for 2026-27 to further support cattle rehabilitation. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu emphasized the importance of the rural economy and assured that despite the discontinuation of the Rural Development Grant (RDG), funds will be available to support farmers and horticulturists.