From Liquor Revenue to Cow Welfare: Rajasthan Doubles Funds for Gaushalas

Jaipur: In a surprising revelation, the Rajasthan government disclosed in the state Assembly that revenue from a 20% surcharge on alcohol over the past two years has played a major role in supporting gaushalas and cattle protection programs across the state. While the liquor surcharge generated ₹1,380.7 crore, the government spent an even larger amount — ₹2,340 crore — on cow shelters and bovine welfare initiatives.

Revenue from liquor: Numbers in perspective
Responding to a question from Congress MLA Rafeeq Khan, the government reported that in FY 2023-24 and 2024-25, the 20% “cow protection” surcharge on alcohol sales generated total revenue of ₹1,380.7 crore — ₹631.04 crore in 2023-24 and ₹749.66 crore in 2024-25, reflecting an increase of approximately ₹118 crore year-on-year.

Expenditure exceeds earnings: ₹2,340 crore for cow welfare
Interestingly, the government has allocated more than double the liquor surcharge revenue for the protection of cows and upkeep of gaushalas. Over the two-year period, a total of over ₹2,340 crore was spent on cattle welfare. This funding comes not only from the liquor surcharge but also from additional revenue collected via stamp duty and the Cow Conservation & Protection Fund Rules, 2016.

No separate budget for de-addiction programs
The government clarified that none of the surcharge revenue has been earmarked specifically for de-addiction or anti-alcohol campaigns. Instead, the entire amount has been directed solely towards cow welfare and bovine protection. In response to opposition queries, the state emphasized that resources for the care and protection of cows will never fall short, and multiple revenue streams will continue to be utilized to ensure their well-being.

This innovative approach highlights Rajasthan’s focus on turning unconventional revenue sources into a lifeline for animal welfare, setting a precedent for balancing fiscal policy with social responsibility.