Bengaluru (Kameshwar Sharma): The Sukhu-Ravi Shankar Meet in Bengaluru drew attention as Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu met spiritual leader Sri Sri Ravi Shankar at the Art of Living Ashram. During the Sukhu-Ravi Shankar Meet, the two leaders discussed natural farming, cow protection, sustainable agriculture, and rural development initiatives in Himachal Pradesh.
The Chief Minister sought blessings from Sri Sri Ravi Shankar and also interacted with Himachalis working at the ashram. Moreover, he inquired about their well-being and participated in Gau Seva activities during his visit.
The Sukhu-Ravi Shankar Meet highlighted the Himachal Pradesh government’s commitment to promoting chemical-free farming and improving cattle welfare across the state.
Himachal Government Promoting Natural Farming
During the Sukhu-Ravi Shankar Meet, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu explained the state government’s efforts to encourage farmers to adopt natural farming methods.
He said the government motivates farmers to move away from chemical-based agriculture and adopt eco-friendly farming practices. Furthermore, the state government provides Minimum Support Price (MSP) for crops grown through natural farming.
According to the Chief Minister, this initiative benefits both consumers and farmers. Consumers receive chemical-free products in the market, while farmers earn better prices for their produce. Therefore, the Sukhu-Ravi Shankar Meet focused strongly on sustainable agricultural growth.
The Chief Minister also said natural farming can improve soil health and reduce environmental damage caused by excessive use of chemicals. As a result, Himachal Pradesh continues to position itself as a leading state in sustainable agriculture.
Focus on Cow Protection and Gopal Yojana
The Sukhu-Ravi Shankar Meet also included detailed discussions on cow protection and rehabilitation of stray cattle in Himachal Pradesh.
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said the state government increased financial assistance under the Gopal Yojana. The monthly grant for cattle kept in private cow shelters has increased from ₹700 to ₹1200 per cattle.
Moreover, the Budget 2026-27 includes several new provisions for stray cattle rehabilitation and cow welfare.
The Chief Minister further said the government has established several cow sanctuaries and large cow shelters in recent years. Additionally, the government plans to allow reputed NGOs, voluntary organizations, and industrial groups to adopt government-run cow shelters and cow sanctuaries.
Therefore, the Sukhu-Ravi Shankar Meet reflected the government’s broader strategy to strengthen animal welfare and support rural communities.
Sri Sri Ravi Shankar Appreciates State Efforts
During the Sukhu-Ravi Shankar Meet, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar appreciated the Himachal Pradesh government’s efforts toward natural farming and cow conservation.
He praised the initiatives aimed at encouraging chemical-free farming and improving cattle protection systems in the state. Furthermore, he welcomed the government’s focus on sustainable development and environmental conservation.
The meeting highlighted the importance of combining spirituality, environmental awareness, and rural development for long-term growth.
CM Interacts With Himachalis at Ashram
Apart from official discussions, the Sukhu-Ravi Shankar Meet also gave the Chief Minister an opportunity to interact with Himachalis working at the Art of Living Ashram in Bengaluru.
He spoke with employees and asked about their welfare and experiences. Meanwhile, his participation in Gau Seva added a spiritual and cultural dimension to the visit.
The interaction reflected the Chief Minister’s efforts to stay connected with Himachal residents living outside the state.
Government Focuses on Sustainable Development
The Sukhu-Ravi Shankar Meet delivered a strong message about sustainable farming, environmental conservation, and cattle welfare.
State officials believe natural farming can improve the income of farmers while also protecting the environment. Moreover, improved cow protection measures can strengthen rural livelihoods and social responsibility.
As a result, the meeting showcased the Himachal Pradesh government’s long-term vision for sustainable agricultural and rural development.
KEY POINTS (QUICK SUMMARY)
- Sukhu-Ravi Shankar Meet held at Art of Living Ashram in Bengaluru
- Discussions focused on natural farming and sustainable agriculture
- Himachal government provides MSP for natural farming products
- Gopal Yojana grant increased from ₹700 to ₹1200 per cattle
- Sri Sri Ravi Shankar praised Himachal’s cow protection initiatives
