Gaudaan Foundation has submitted a detailed representation to key government and regulatory authorities, advocating for the implementation of a comprehensive Gaukasth (cow dung logs) cremation policy across Delhi. The proposal also includes measures to strengthen the financial sustainability and management of Gaushalas (cow shelters).
Background of the Representation
The representation follows an order dated May 20, 2026, by the Hon'ble High Court of Delhi in W.P.(C) No. 6998/2026, Ajay Kumar Gakhar v. Union of India & Others. The court granted liberty to the petitioner to approach concerned authorities with detailed recommendations. This is considered a partial win, as the court accepted the suggestion and mandated the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) and other bodies to respond in writing.
Objectives and Benefits
Ajay Kumar Gakhar, Trustee of Gaudaan Foundation, highlighted that Delhi faces two interconnected challenges: environmental degradation from large-scale firewood use in cremations and the growing burden of unmanaged cattle waste coupled with financial distress of Gaushalas. He emphasized that making cows self-reliant requires monetizing their products and by-products, as cows do not produce milk throughout their lifespan. Gaukasth is a multi-beneficial product offering four advantages: saving the environment through reduced deforestation and pollution, creating employment, and generating income for Gaushalas. A gau vansh (bovine) can earn Rs. 25-35 per day from sale of cow dung or Gaukasth, which exceeds the Rs. 20 per day provided by the Delhi government to Gaushalas.
Environmental Benefits of Gaukasth
Scientific studies by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) show that Gaukasth significantly reduces harmful emissions during cremation compared to conventional firewood. Key reductions include:
- 43.9% in Particulate Matter (PM)
- 55.18% in Sulphur Dioxide (SO₂)
- 14.96% in Nitrogen Oxides (NOx)
- 24.8% in Carbon Monoxide (CO)
The study reported an overall average pollution reduction of approximately 34.71%.
Successful Model in Bhopal
The Foundation highlighted Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, where major crematoriums have achieved 90-95% wood-free operations using Gaukasth. This model has conserved forest resources, reduced cremation costs, and improved operational efficiency.
Economic Support for Gaushalas
Large-scale adoption of Gaukasth could create a sustainable revenue stream for Gaushalas, potentially generating Rs. 25-35 per cattle per day. This would improve cattle welfare, support fodder and veterinary care, and reduce the burden of stray cattle in urban areas.
Key Recommendations
The Foundation has requested authorities including the MCD, Delhi Government, Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC), Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), and the Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying to undertake the following measures:
- Implement a phased transition from the current 40% Gaukasth usage to 100% in public crematoriums.
- Designate select cremation centres for immediate 100% Gaukasth-based cremations.
- Install iron pyres and supporting infrastructure to optimize Gaukasth use.
- Provide storage and distribution facilities for Gaukasth suppliers at cremation grounds.
- Utilize cremation ash as organic fertilizer for afforestation and Miyawaki forest projects.
- Extend financial support, equipment grants, CSR partnerships, and modernization assistance to Gaushalas.
- Develop a structured supply chain for collection and utilization of cattle waste from Delhi and the NCR region.
- Introduce Air Pollution Control Devices (APCDs) at crematoriums to further reduce emissions.
- Launch public awareness campaigns highlighting the environmental and cultural acceptance of Gaukasth.
Constitutional and Environmental Imperative
The Foundation argues that promoting cleaner cremation practices and sustainable cattle management aligns with constitutional principles under Article 21 (Right to a Clean Environment), Article 48 (Protection of Cattle), and Article 51A(g) (Fundamental Duty to Protect the Environment). Gaudaan Foundation hopes that authorities will take timely action and formulate a practical roadmap for eco-friendly cremation practices in Delhi.
(This content is sourced from a syndicated feed and is published as received.)
