Seeking to shore up support ahead of elections, the Modi government on Friday announced a new board to upgrade cow genetics and productivity.

“This government will never shy away from honouring our mother cow,” Finance Minister Piyush Goyal said while presenting the Interim Budget.

“I announce setting up of 'Rashtriya Kamdhenu Aayog' (National Cow Board) to upscale sustainable genetic up-gradation of cow resources and to enhance production and productivity of cows,” the minister said.

Goyal said that the board will also look after effective implementation of laws and welfare schemes for cows.

Goyal said that funds for the Rashtriya Gokul Mission have been increased to Rs 750 crore in the current financial year.

The scheme is run by the ministry of agriculture and farmers welfare and is aimed towards conserving and developing indigenous cattle breeds.

The interim budget also provided for a 2% interest subvention to farmers involved in animal husbandry and fishery.

Addressing a press conference after presenting the budget, Goyal said that the proposal for cow welfare was made in accordance with constitutional provisions.