A wave of discontent has swept across farmers in Latur as they expressed their opposition to the Maharashtra government’s decision to establish a conservation center for indigenous cows in Ambejogai, Beed, rather than Latur. The conservation project specifically aims to protect the ’Lal Kandhari’ and ’Devni’ cow breeds and was officially announced on September 16 as a component of the state government’s package for the Marathwada region.
One protesting farmer voiced his concerns, stating, ”The Devni Pandharbanda and Lal Kandhari breeds are a source of pride for Latur. The conservation project should have been located in Deoni, Latur, rather than Sakud in Ambejogai. These two breeds also enjoy popularity in Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana.”
Latur is renowned for its soybean cultivation, yet the research center for this crucial crop has been designated for Parli, Beed, which is seen as a further injustice to the district.
In solidarity with the farmers’ cause, several shops in the region temporarily closed their doors as part of the protest on Thursday. The decision to relocate the indigenous cow conservation center has sparked fervent opposition, reflecting the deeply rooted connection between farmers and their regions in Maharashtra.
