Importance of Goshalas

Earlier, every village in India had a goshala. Deshi cows were protected and bred for pedigree purpose (to maintain original breeds in different climatic situation). In every aspect, the cow is beneficial to man – the milk provides the required nutrition to the entire family, natural fertilizers and pesticides are manufactured from deshi cow dung. Deshi cow urine or Go-mutra is distilled for Ayurvedic medicinal purposes. Cow dung is also used to line the floor and walls of buildings owing to its insect repellent properties. In villages, in the cold weather, cow dung is used to line the walls of houses as a thermal insulator. The dung is used for biogas and to generate electricity and heat. The gas is a rich source of methane and is used in rural areas of India to provide a renewable and stable source of electricity. One cow is able to provide food to 410,440 people during her life time, while her meat is sufficient for only 80 people. One cow is sufficient to manure 30 acres of land.