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In an effort to “infuse curiosity” among people about the importance of cows, and to “sensitise and educate” them about the bovine species, the government plans to conduct a nationwide voluntary online examination on cow science next month, it was announced on Tuesday.
The examination – Kamdhenu Gau-Vigyan Prachar-Prasar Pareeksha – will be held on February 25, Rashtriya Kamdhenu Aayog (RKA) chairman Vallabhbhai Kathiria said.
The exam will be conducted by RKA, an agency established for protection of cows under the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying.
On the need to explore “cow science”, Kathiria said, “Cow is full of science…. If we talk about the $5-trillion economy, we have 19.42 crore govansh (cattle) in our country, which can play an important role in it (growth of the economy). Even if a cow does not give milk, its urine and dung is still precious; if we use those, not only will cows be saved, the entire economy will be on track.”
Kathiria said: “The exam will be conducted in four categories: primary level (up to class VIII); for students between classes IX and XII; a third category for college and university students; and the fourth will be open to all, in which not only Indian citizens but anyone can appear.”
The examination will be based on multiple choice questions (MCQs), and students can take the one-hour exam on mobile phone or computer, Kathiria said.
He said online registration is open from January 14 to February 20, and results will be declared on February 25 itself. It will be conducted in Hindi, English and 12 regional languages.
Kathiria also said Kamdhenu chairs will be set up in universities across the country to generate interest about indigenous cow and their benefits.
Kathiria, who last year unveiled a “chip” made of cow dung and claimed that it reduces radiation from mobile phone handsets significantly, on Tuesday claimed that 800 Covid-19 patients have been cured by panchgavya – cow dung, cow urine, milk, curd, ghee – and ayurvedic concoctions. Coronavirus patients from Rajkot, Varanasi, Vadodara and Kalyan (Maharashtra) were given this and they were rid of the virus between five and 14 days without experiencing any complications, Kathiria said.
In a statement, the Union Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying said, “Certificates will be given to all. Successful meritorious candidates will be given prizes and certificates…”
The ministry stated that the Union education minister, chief ministers, state education ministers, chairpersons of Gau Seva Aayogs of all states and others will be involved “in this mammoth exercise”.
The exam, the ministry stated, will be an annual event of the RKA in future. “It will also fulfil the objectives of Atmanirbhar Bharat/Vocal for Local/Green India/Digital India/Clean India/Healthy India/Make in India concepts of Prime Minister Narendra Modi,” it added.
