PRAYAGRAJ, Oct. 20 -- This Diwali, the often-overlooked residents of government-run cow shelters in Prayagraj will bask in a special glow, thanks to a unique initiative by the district administration aimed at combining festivity with awareness and empowerment. To mark the festival of lights, a series of cultural and awareness events will be organised at the Nirashrit Govansh Ashray Sthals (shelters for stray and destitute cattle) across the district, officials said. Chief development officer (CDO) Harshika Singh has directed key departments-including the chief veterinary office, district panchayat raj office and the Livelihood Mission's deputy commissioner-to coordinate the festivities, they said. All 23 block development officers have been instructed to host special worship ceremonies and community events at local cow shelters to promote public sensitivity towards cow protection, they added. Chief veterinary officer Dr SN Yadav said Prayagraj currently has 123 active cow shelters, including 3 large and 120 temporary ones, collectively housing over 32,000 cattle. "This Diwali, we will illuminate the shelters with lamps and perform traditional rituals like gau-pujan (cow worship), along with religious recitations and group prayers at block-level shelters," Dr Yadav added. The administration is also promoting cow-based entrepreneurship. Stalls showcasing products made from cow derivatives-crafted by self-help groups under the National Rural Livelihoods Mission-will be set up at these shelters. "SHG women have prepared a variety of items, including earthen lamps, idols, incense sticks, and cow dung cakes, for Diwali," said Ashok Kumar Gupta, deputy commissioner of NRLM. "These will be available for purchase at stalls outside cow shelters during the celebrations," he added. Over 850 women in the district are currently engaged in producing cow-based products. The initiative not only underscores the importance of cow protection but also creates income-generating opportunities for rural women, especially during the festive season....