From Ghaziabad to Global Markets: UP’s Indigenous Cow Economy

What began as a personal mission in Ghaziabad has become Uttar Pradesh’s most promising export story. Asim Rawat, once a senior engineer at major US software companies, returned to India inspired by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s call for cow-based prosperity. His organization Heta now manages over 1,000 native cows and ships nearly 150 value-added products to more than ten countries including the UK, USA, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Singapore, and Middle Eastern nations. The business model is both ethical and comprehensive. Every part of the cow is utilized—from premium A2 milk and traditional bilona ghee to Ayurvedic formulations, organic snacks, herbal teas, and natural cosmetics. Senior cattle are never discarded; they remain integral to the ecosystem, receiving lifelong care while contributing to the production chain. Government backing has been decisive. The state’s Dairy Master Plan and Operation-4 scheme offer up to 50 percent subsidy on indigenous cow rearing, structured through a 15-35-50 funding formula of self-investment, bank loans, and grants. High-quality breeds like Sahiwal, Gir, Gangatiri, and Sindhi are being conserved and scaled across the state. Farmers who once struggled with low returns are now generating substantial incomes through cow-based enterprises. Rural economies are experiencing fresh momentum as demand for “Made in UP” cow products surges internationally. The initiative demonstrates how cultural values and smart policy can combine to create sustainable wealth and global recognition for Uttar Pradesh.