Haryana Rolls Out Free Platelets for Dengue, Steps Up Cow Welfare Drive with Major Funding Push

Dr Kamlesh Kali, Chandigarh, May 5: Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Tuesday announced two major initiatives—free Single Donor Platelets for dengue patients in government hospitals and intensified measures to make the state free from stray cattle—underscoring the government’s focus on both public health and animal welfare.Free Platelets, Cash Support for Dengue PatientsAddressing a programme in Ladwa, Kurukshetra, the Chief Minister said Haryana has become the first state in North India to provide free Single Donor Platelets to dengue patients in government hospitals. In addition, patients are being given a reimbursement of ₹11,000.Highlighting the state’s growing capacity, he said 154 blood centres are operational and over 4.5 lakh units of blood were collected—surpassing last year’s target.

Haryana has also received the Blood Donation Excellence Award for the second consecutive year.The CM emphasized that blood donation is the highest form of service, noting that one person in India requires blood every two seconds. He urged youth to donate regularly and dispel myths surrounding blood donation.Tribute to Manohar Lal, Push for Social ServiceThe event coincided with the birthday of Union Minister Manohar Lal, whom the Chief Minister described as an inspiration for his commitment to public service, transparency, and welfare. A blood donation camp was organized on the occasion, where donors were honored.Stray Cattle-Free Haryana: Government’s Top PriorityIn a separate programme, CM Saini reiterated that eliminating stray cattle is a key priority.

Two Gau Abhayaarany have already been established in Panipat and Hisar, with ₹8 crore released for their development.He also distributed fodder grants worth ₹70.24 lakh to 11 registered gaushalas and highlighted that ₹228.58 crore has been released in the current financial year for 619 gaushalas across the state.Massive Expansion of Gaushalas and Veterinary InfrastructureThe Chief Minister said the number of registered gaushalas has increased from 215 before 2014 to 697 now, accommodating over 4 lakh stray cattle. The government plans to provide ₹10 lakh each to 51 gaushalas for shed construction and convert all cow shelters into solar-powered campuses.Additionally, new veterinary dispensaries and hospitals will be opened across the state, strengthening animal healthcare infrastructure.Focus on Indigenous Breeds and Rural EconomyThe state is promoting indigenous cow breeds under the Rashtriya Gokul Mission, offering incentives between ₹5,000 and ₹20,000. Gaushalas are also being encouraged to become self-reliant by producing organic and Panchgavya-based products.Integrated Approach to WelfareThe Chief Minister stressed that both initiatives—healthcare support through blood donation and animal welfare through gaushala development—reflect the government’s integrated approach to building a healthy and compassionate society. He called for active participation from citizens, especially youth and community organizations, to achieve these goals.