17th October, 2025, New Delhi: Over 500 delegates, including policymakers, entrepreneurs and scientists, gathered at Dr. B. R. Ambedkar International Centre on 13 October for the Third National Summit on Cow-Panchgavya-Based Economy. The summit unveiled the Delhi Declaration, a five-year roadmap to strengthen cow-based industries and rural livelihoods.
Following the keynote addresses, Ms. Rashmi Singh IAS, Secretary of the Ministry of Women and Child Development, addressed the summit and underscored the pivotal role of women-led cow-based initiatives in fostering community resilience. Drawing on her experience with rural development programmes, she highlighted how Panchgavya micro-enterprises can generate sustainable income streams for women’s self-help groups. Ms Singh also announced forthcoming WCD schemes to provide technical training and seed funding for women entrepreneurs in the cow-economy sector. Her remarks emphasised the intersection of gender equity and sustainable development, reinforcing the summit’s commitment to inclusive growth.
Sessions marked International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction with expert panels on cows’ role in flood-resilient agriculture and bio-remediation of polluted soils.
A women’s empowerment forum featured success stories from Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh, where dairy co-operatives doubled household incomes. Chairpersons of State Cow Service Commissions outlined new training modules for rural youth. Enterprise leaders from GRS Bharat and CUTS International shared market linkages for Panchgavya cosmetic products.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Swadeshi and Bharatiyata underpinned discussions. “Make in India must include our indigenous breeds”, noted Dr. Vallabhbhai Kathiria. Speakers agreed that cow-based industries can drive the rural economy and help India secure its aim of becoming the world’s third-largest economy.
The summit was organised by Khushi Centre for Rehabilitation and Research, in partnership with the NDMA, Ministries of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Social Justice and Empowerment, and the Delhi government. Over 30 institutions, including ISKCON, Animal Welfare Board of India, Global Confederation of Cow-Based Industries and others lent their support. Delegates enjoyed a wholesome Bikaner Group breakfast and Sattvik lunch, and prasadam from ISKCON Dwarka.
Following a day of rich dialogue, organisers expressed their gratitude. Prof. Ram Swaroop Chauhan and Organising Secretary Saket Mani Trivedi closed the event with a vote of thanks. The next summit will convene in Mumbai in October 2026.
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