Image for representation purpose only (Source: Wikimedia)
Buying four- and two-wheelers will soon become marginally expensive as the Punjab government will levy a cow cess on vehicles and electricity, along with several other items in the state. The cess is expected to accumulate approximately Rs 100 crore per annum which can be spent on the welfare of cows. Local Bodies department has proposed to levy cow cess at:
- Rs 1,000 on the purchase of four-wheeler
- Rs 500 on purchase of two-wheeler
- Rs 100 on oil tanker
- 2 paisa per unit of electricity consumption
- Rs 1,000 on booking of AC hall of marriage palace
- Rs 500 on booking of non-AC hall
- Re 1 per cement bag
- Rs 10 per bottle of Indian Made Foreign Liquor
- Rs 5 per bottle on Punjab Medium Liquor
Punjab Local Bodies Minister and BJP MLA Amritsar Anil Joshi said, “Cow cess on various items will be levied in the state and the amount collected will be spent on cattle and their welfare.”
A total of 33 out of 154 municipal councils have approved the resolution while seven out of 10 municipal corporations have also endorsed the decision. The government will issue a notification by May 25, 2016. According to statistics by Punjab Gau Sewa Commission there are 2.69 lakh cows in the state in 472 shelters, while the count of stray cows stands at 1.06 lakh.
With inputs from PTI
What on earth are they doing with the milk and meat from the 2.69lakh cows? Pouring it down the drain? This is a cover for squandering more money.
What next dog cess, bird cess