Governor visits Govardhan Dham in Kyarkoti

· Participates in consecration ceremony of Shanidham and Karm Ghat

· Calls upon women to join fight against drug abuse

Shimla , April 12 : Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla visited Kyarkoti near Shimla today where he attended a Gau Katha programme as the Chief Guest. On this occasion, he also participated in the consecration ceremony of Shanidham and Karm Ghat. During his visit, the Governor offered grains to cows at the newly established Govardhan Dham and performed Gau Seva.

Lady Governor Janaki Shukla and Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Anirudh Singh were also present on the occasion. Renowned saint Shri Gopal Mani Ji Maharaj delivered a discourse highlighting the glory and sanctity of Gau Mata.

Addressing the gathering, the Governor said that it was his first visit to the region and he was deeply impressed by the natural beauty of the valley. Emphasising the need to develop the area as a tourism destination, he suggested establishing a tourism centre in the region. He said that the Gau Katha was not merely a religious narrative, but a celebration of social awareness, spiritual faith and cultural preservation.

He said, “Scriptures regard the cow as the mother of the universe. This is not just a religious belief, but an integral part of our Indian way of life. In our culture, the cow is revered not just as an animal but as a mother who nourishes us physically and spiritually.”

Commending the efforts of Govardhan Dham Welfare Society and the local villagers for establishing Govardhan Dham, the Governor said that their initiative not only promotes cow protection but also provides spiritual facilities like Shanidham and Karm Ghat for the community. He added that such service to cows is a sacred act that awakens human compassion and serves as a beacon of cultural values.

Highlighting the importance of indigenous hill cows, the Governor said their milk is considered equivalent to nectar due to its medicinal properties. He further stated that cow dung is highly beneficial for natural farming which reduces the reliance on chemical fertilizers and also promotes organic agriculture. “Cow protection is not just about faith, it is a cornerstone for economic, social and environmental sustainability,” he added.

He expressed hope that Govardhan Dham would soon emerge as a model centre for cow service and a revered spiritual destination for the entire state.

Drawing attention to the growing menace of drug abuse in Himachal Pradesh, the Governor said, “Himachal is known as Devbhoomi, but if drugs persist, this identity will be at stake.” He stressed that many families have lost their young children due to substance abuse and urged the women of the state to take an active role in the campaign against drugs to preserve the sanctity of the land.

Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Anirudh Singh, in his address, welcomed the Governor and lauded the initiative for establishing Govardhan Dham. He said Himachal Pradesh has always upheld religion, tradition and culture, with rural communities continuing the age-old practice of cow service. He informed that the State Government is running several schemes for cow protection and development of gaushalas.

He said that the establishment of Govardhan Dham was made possible through the collective efforts and donations from local residents. “In modern times, people are gradually distancing themselves from spiritual practices. The establishment of Shanidham and Karm Ghat will serve as a space where people can reconnect with their religious roots,” he said. He also thanked the Governor for gracing the occasion.

Earlier, President of Gram Panchayat Chaidi and Govardhan Dham Welfare Society Bhuvneshwar Sharma extended a warm welcome to the Governor.