Sri Vijaya Puram, July 5: The second phase of the nationwide signature campaign seeking declaration of Gau Mata as ‘Rashtra Mata’ was formally launched in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands as part of the ongoing Gau Mata Samman Abhiyan.
The campaign was inaugurated during a public programme held at the Chinmaya Mission Auditorium following the arrival of Swami Gopalanand Saraswati Maharaj in Sri Vijaya Puram on July 4. The event was attended by Swami Suddhananda Saraswati Maharaj, Acharya of Chinmaya Mission, along with a Swamiji from Ramakrishna Mission, Sri Vijaya Puram.
Addressing a large gathering, Swami Gopalanand Saraswati highlighted the spiritual, cultural and ecological significance of Gau Mata in Indian civilisation. He stressed that protection and preservation of indigenous cows are deeply rooted in the values of Sanatan Dharma and contribute to environmental sustainability, natural farming, rural prosperity and overall social well-being.
Calling upon citizens to actively participate in the signature campaign, Swami Gopalanand Saraswati Maharaj announced the rollout of the second phase of the nationwide initiative across the Islands.
The campaign seeks public support for a nationwide ban on cow slaughter, declaration of Gau Mata as Rashtra Mata and enactment of a Central law for Gau Mata protection.
“Gau Mata is a cornerstone of our heritage and ecology. Protecting indigenous Indian breeds is a collective responsibility that paves the way for a prosperous and sustainable future,” Swamiji said while addressing the gathering.
The programme witnessed participation from devotees, representatives of various social and cultural organisations, religious leaders, youth groups and members of the public. Participants expressed their commitment to taking the signature campaign to every part of the Islands.
Earlier, Mr. Anil Goel, Sambag Pramukh, welcomed the gathering, while Mr. Anoop Gopinathan, Sah Sambag Prabhari, briefed the audience about the ongoing signature campaign.
Swami Gopalanand Saraswati Maharaj’s visit forms part of his nationwide outreach programme under the Gau Mata Samman Abhiyan, aimed at generating awareness and mobilising democratic public support for the cause through peaceful means.
