Once mocked for cows on streets and “gobar” jokes, India now laughs last. The same cow dung once ridiculed is now a hot global commodity. From the deserts of Kuwait to the gardens of California, Indian cow dung is fertilizing the world. Gobar turned to Gold – literally and economically.
From Sacred to Sold: The Gobar Economics
Bharat with its 300 million cattle is said to produce about 3 million metric tonnes of cow dung daily. This cow dung has a place in the rural ecosystem. From biogas plants to bio fuel of “gobar ke upale” – this organic waste is part of the identity of traditionally rooted Indian society. Gobar also holds a prime place in the Sanatana system, from purification to yagya kund. Thus, the Gau Mata and her vardan of Gobar are celebrated as India’s culture. And for the past few years, it has contributed to the GDP of Bharat as well!
In 2023-24, cow dung exports reached ₹386 crores, including ₹125 crores in fresh dung, ₹173.57 crores in fertilizers, and ₹88.02 crores in compost manure.
Top importers include the Maldives, USA, Singapore, China, and Nepal. Rajasthan leads the way in production, with a gross value output of ₹10,190 crore in 2023-24. Second to none on the producers list are Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra. Thus, apart from ensuring that cow dung is part of their cultural heritage, Indians are making it a part of their economy!
Climate Critics, Take Note: India’s Organic Edge
For years climate experts have criticized India’s cattle for methane emissions. There were even calls for imposing extra environmental taxes on Bharat for its carbon footprint! However, the Organic revolution began to defeat the industrialists. And who knows organic farming better than Indians?! Cow dung has been part of Bharat’s fertilisers for millennia!
And today this Gobar is exported to fertilize palm plantations in Gulf countries and organic farms in the West.
With India’s green cover exceeding 20%, the nation is able to provide for one-sixth of the world’s population on 1/16th of the world’s land mass. Additionally, Indian farmers are taking to organic farming and exports like fish to water. Thus, cow dung and organic exports are booming. The Arab nations are ready to pay the best price for Indian cow dung! Why? Gobar helps increase the quality and quantity of their yield! Moreover, the West is also demanding its share of Indian cow dung, underscoring its value in international markets. The very cow that the LeLi Green Warriors cursed, is providing the world with the best quality organic fertilizer.
From Gobar to Global
India’s cow dung was once a subject of mockery. But today it is a valuable export commodity. The country’s ability to turn a traditional resource into a global product showcases its innovative spirit and economic resilience.
Utilizing cow dung as fertilizer not only provides economic benefits but also addresses many environmental concerns.
The Indian Biogas Association estimates that fermented organic manure can save India $1.5 billion in fertilizer imports and contribute to cleaner energy production. Additionally, NITI Aayog has recommended promoting cow dung-based fertilizers to enhance soil health and support sustainable agriculture. Thus, turning a once-mocked resource into a global commodity, India has demonstrated the potential of sustainable practices rooted in cultural heritage.
The transformation of Gobar To Global Gold not only boosts the economy but also reinforces the significance of preserving, understanding, and adapting traditional knowledge for progress!!