In a remarkable display of dedication to animal welfare, a couple from Haryana has embarked on a 951-kilometer foot march with their young daughter to champion the cause of cattle conservation across villages in northern India. Ajit, aged 35, and his wife Priyanka, 32, natives of Babail village in Panipat district, Haryana, began their journey on January 5, 2026, with the goal of reaching the Shri Gorakhnath temple in Gorakhpur by February 10.
A Journey Rooted in Awareness and Safety
The couple's mission is driven by a deep concern over the increasing number of road accidents caused by stray cattle wandering on highways and rural roads. Ajit highlighted that in the past year alone, several accidents involving cattle have been recorded, resulting in dozens of injuries and fatalities. He expressed alarm over the rising cruelty towards these animals and emphasized the urgent need for protective measures.
Advocating for Cowsheds in Every Village
According to Ajit, constructing cowsheds in every village is a practical solution to safeguard cattle. He explained that such facilities would provide safe havens for the animals, ensuring they have proper arrangements for fodder and water. This initiative, he believes, would not only protect cattle but also benefit farmers by reducing crop damage and improving local agriculture.
Priyanka described their journey as an extensive awareness campaign. So far, they have passed through more than 200 villages across Haryana and Uttar Pradesh, engaging with communities to spread their message. She appealed to villagers to take proactive steps at the local level by building cowsheds and leveraging government schemes like the Rashtriya Gokul Mission, which supports cattle conservation efforts at both central and state levels.
Community Support and Police Assistance
During their trek, the couple has received overwhelming support from local communities. They have held meetings at over 50 locations, where hundreds of people welcomed them warmly. Villagers in Nawabganj and Ajgain, in particular, extended a heartfelt reception, showcasing the grassroots enthusiasm for their cause.
Law enforcement has also played a crucial role in ensuring their safety. Nawabganj outpost in-charge Mukul Dubey and constable Anoop Dubey provided security and assisted the family in crossing toll plazas. Mukul Dubey assured full cooperation and continued police support throughout their journey, highlighting the collaborative effort between activists and authorities.
Logistical Arrangements and Future Goals
The couple's food and night stays have been arranged through the cooperation of villagers, demonstrating the community's commitment to their mission. As they reached Unnao on January 26, they remain steadfast in their appeal for all villages to adopt the slogan, 'Make cattle conservation a reality'. Their journey underscores the importance of grassroots activism in addressing national issues like animal welfare and road safety.
This inspiring foot march not only raises awareness about cattle conservation but also serves as a call to action for sustainable rural development. By promoting the construction of cowsheds and utilizing government schemes, Ajit and Priyanka hope to create a safer environment for both cattle and humans, paving the way for a more compassionate and organized approach to animal husbandry in India.
