Subramanian Swamy’s VHS to host national conference on cows in Mumbai on June 18

“Cow is divine blessings... Over 98% of agriculture in India depends on cows... Dung of one cow is enough to fertilize five acre land... Cow milk and ghee helps develop the brain of children.”

These lines are part of an animated film showcasing benefits of Indian breeds of cows. The film, made by Virat Hindustan Sangam (VHS), is currently being shared on social media. The film is part of the VHS’ propaganda to mobilise cow-lovers ahead of the “National Conference on Bos indicus - The Glorious Indian Cows” slated to be held on June 18.

BJP MP Dr Subramanian Swamy, the founder of the VHS, will deliver the keynote address in the conference. Over 750 “intellectuals” from all walks of life are expected to attend the show at the BSE complex.

The event is believed to be part of RSS and BJP’s ideology and consistent efforts to save Indian breeds of cows. Various government schemes and cow-shelter projects have been launched in last three years to conserve the indigenous bovine.

Deputy Prime Minister of Nepal, Kamal Thapa, MoS Home Hansraj Ahir, Hrishikesh Mafatlal, chaiman of Arvind Mafatlal group and actor Vivek Oberoi are expected to attend the meet, Jagdish Shetty, an associate of Dr Swamy told DNA.

Prior registration with a contribution of Rs 500 (which covers breakfast and lunch as well) till June 11 and Rs 1,000 after June 11 is required to attend this event, states the invitation card.

A cow connect app and a book called “Capitalism, Communism and Cowism” written by Sahdeo Dasa will also be launched on this occasion. Farmers, breeders, cow herders and researchers will be felicitated during the event.

The conference is focused on “Bos indicus” an indigenous breed of cows and its impact. The panel discussions and audio-visual presentations will cover cow and economics, cow and agriculture plus environment, cow and spirituality, cow and health etc.

The invite, a copy of which is available with DNA, also gives a list of quotes highlighting cow preservation and its benefits.

Timing of this conference is significant, say observers. “As Centre is in fire-fighting mode following strong opposition of its notification banning sale of cattle in agriculture markets, states like Kerala and West Bengal have threatened to take legal recourse against the move. The Movement has now spread to universities and IITs.”

Unrest within the BJP is also coming to fore. The party’s Meghalaya leader quit over the issue on Thursday, while many others in the northeast states and Kerala find themselves in a tight spot.