Farmers from Maharashtra, along with members of the Quresh Conference, have urged the Central Government to establish a nationwide livestock transport service in collaboration with state governments — a move they say could transform India’s agri-supply and logistics landscape.
Currently, cattle are transported in open or ill-fitted goods carrier trucks without proper loading or ventilation systems. This not only exposes animals to extreme stress, injuries, and fatalities but also creates major logistical hurdles for farmers and traders, while violating animal welfare norms.
Farmers’ organisations have also cited frequent harassment and logistical bottlenecks faced by livestock traders due to unclear transport regulations and restrictions.
Formalise Transport
National Vice President of Quresh Conference Sadiq Khatik said, “The government must formalize the transportation of animals — an often overlooked but crucial link in the rural economy.” He pointed out that the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) discontinued its 10-tonne truck operations, pushing traders and farmers toward expensive private transport options.
The proposal sent to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, and other senior ministers recommends the introduction of standardised, officially recognised trucks for livestock with uniform colour, logos, and toll-free access across India. It also calls for dedicated transport hubs at the taluka level, rest sheds every 100–200 km, and water facilities along major routes.
Business potential
Khatik emphasised that the formalisation of small animal transport — such as for goats and sheep — through double- or triple-decker vehicles could unlock significant business potential, create rural employment, and give India a competitive edge in the global livestock industry. The livestock sector currently contributes 30.23 per cent of agricultural GVA and 5.5 per cent to the national economy, making it a vital pillar of the agri-economy.
Farmers’ worries
Farmers’ organisations in Maharashtra believe such a structured system would be a game changer for the agri-logistics sector, bridging the gap between rural producers and urban markets while ensuring humane and efficient animal movement.
BJP MLC Sadabhau Khot, founder president of Rayat Kranti Sanghatana who has repeatedly said that farmers are facing harassment from cow vigilantes and alleged the cow vigilantes were extortionists and threatening farmers and said he has raised the issue with Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.
“Under the guise of cow protection, a large lobby is operating in the State. They even have corporate offices. Farmers are suffering because of them. If the government fails to act, we will set up cattle camps in front of police stations,” Khot said speaking to reporters.
HC Criticism
The call for reform also follows the Bombay High Court’s 2024 criticism of the Maharashtra government over poor livestock transportation practices — a reminder that modernization is not just an economic imperative but a moral and environmental necessity.
Published on November 3, 2025
