Personal and operational profile of cow shelters (Ghaushalas) in southern Rajasthan

The study was conducted to analyze the socio-economic characteristics, management practices and resource utilization patterns of cow shelters (Gaushalas) in Southern Rajasthan, covering eight districts and 150 Gaushalas (48 rural and 102 urban) during 2020-21. A pre-tested interview schedule was used to collect data from managers or supervisors of Gaushalas through personal interviews and direct observations. The findings revealed that the majority of Gaushalas (89.58% rural and 93.14% urban) were established between 1986 and 2020, with no new establishments after 2020. A notable disparity in educational status was observed, with 40.20% of urban managers being graduates, compared to 22.92% illiterate managers in rural areas. Most Gaushalas housed a medium number of cattle (184-1110) and reported moderate milk production levels (27-125 L/day). Similarly, a large proportion maintained medium-sized groups of lactating animals and operated with small labor forces (