Bikaner, Rajasthan – In a rare display of personal sacrifice and compassion, Vighnesh Ojha, a resident of Bikaner, left his full-time job to devote himself entirely to the care and protection of over 2,500 abandoned bulls—animals that were discarded by their owners for not producing milk.
The growing commercial focus on dairy production has led to an alarming rise in the abandonment of non-lactating cattle, particularly male calves and aging bulls. Often left to fend for themselves without food or shelter, many of these animals die due to starvation or injuries sustained while scavenging. Deeply disturbed by this harsh reality, Ojha took the bold step of establishing a gaushala (cow shelter) to rescue and rehabilitate these neglected animals.
A Shelter Built on Humanity
Ojha’s initiative began modestly, but the scale of cattle abandonment in rural Rajasthan soon turned his mission into a large-scale operation. Today, his shelter provides food, medical care, and protection to more than 2,500 bulls. The effort, while noble, comes with significant financial and logistical challenges.
“These animals are living beings, not commodities. Once they stop producing milk, they’re abandoned. That’s not justice,” said Ojha.
He funds the operations largely through personal resources and voluntary contributions. Despite limited infrastructure, he has partnered with local veterinarians, volunteers, and donors to ensure the bulls receive proper care.
An Urgent Animal Welfare Issue
The issue reflects a broader animal welfare crisis in India, where male cattle and non-milking animals are routinely abandoned due to their perceived economic uselessness. Activists have called for stronger policies and incentives to protect such animals from neglect.
Ojha’s shelter now serves as a model for ethical animal care, inspiring others across Rajasthan and beyond to reconsider how India treats its farm animals.
