Priyanka Gandhi's Wayanad Visit Highlights Dairy Farmers' Struggles and a Cow Named Alia Bhatt

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra at a dairy farm in Kerala.

Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi's recent visit to a dairy farm in Kerala's Wayanad has brought unexpected attention to a cow named after Bollywood star Alia Bhatt.

The Kodencherry dairy farm in Thiruvambady welcomed the Wayanad MP, resulting in a viral video featuring the uniquely named cow. Farmer Mathew and Father Augustine were responsible for naming the bovine after the famous actress.

Sheeba Francis, Director of the local Milk Co-operative Society, operates the farm with assistance from Jinu Thomas, Secretary of the Kodencherry Co-operative Society. The establishment has gained significant attention following Priyanka's visit this week.

In footage obtained by NDTV, Francis can be seen providing fresh grass to the cows while sharing her experience of the high-profile visit.

"Having Priyanka Gandhi visit our farm was an incredible experience we never imagined possible. She dedicated nearly an hour here, personally feeding each cow," Francis explained.

"She asked about the names of all the cows and was particularly amused by the name Alia Bhatt. She showed genuine curiosity about our operations and farm management. When she encountered a one-month-old calf, the MP suggested naming it Maria, which we happily did," Francis added while gently petting the young calf.

According to Thomas, Gandhi's visit stemmed from her "specific interest in supporting the dairy farming sector."

"This establishment is considered exemplary in our panchayat, having received multiple awards at state, district, and block levels. It's a family operation without permanent staff, yet manages approximately 30 cows. The MP visited to gain firsthand understanding of challenges dairy farmers face," he elaborated.

During her time there, Priyanka Gandhi engaged with cooperative societies and local farmers, listening to their concerns and pledging her support. "She committed to bringing these issues to the attention of appropriate authorities," Thomas noted.

Regarding current industry difficulties, Thomas explained, "Dairy farmers are experiencing a serious crisis, with many abandoning the profession. Escalating costs have significantly impacted business viability. There's a substantial disparity between expenses and income. Additionally, threats from wildlife create further complications for farmers."

Earlier this week, the Wayanad MP shared footage of the cow on X. "Met a group of dairy farmers at a dairy farm run by the loveliest family (and even encountered a cow named Alia Bhatt!!, due apologies to Ms. Bhatt @aliaa08, but she was really a cutie pie!)," she wrote.

The video depicts Priyanka Gandhi feeding and interacting with cows, conversing with farmers, and documenting their concerns.

She highlighted the struggles of dairy farmers, noting that many face financial difficulties. The politician stated her intention to write to the relevant ministry regarding issues including increasing veterinary medicine costs, insufficient insurance coverage, and challenges accessing quality cattle feed.

"My gratitude to the many farmers who were kind enough to spend a lot of time explaining these issues to me. I will do whatever I can to help," she concluded.