India is seeing a surge of eco-driven innovation as startups, government bodies, and rural enterprises transform cow dung—once considered waste—into sustainable, value-added materials. These projects are helping reduce environmental burden, promote rural incomes, and spark new industries anchored in tradition and sustainability.

Cow Dung Paint: A First for India

In January 2021, the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) launched Khadi Prakritik Paint, the country’s first commercial paint primarily made from cow dung. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari underscored its non-toxic, odorless quality and its alignment with India’s broader goal of increasing farmer incomes and boosting rural economies.

The paint comes in two types—distemper and plastic emulsion—and has been certified by the Bureau of Indian Standards. It’s free from heavy metals like lead, mercury, chromium, cadmium, and arsenic, making it safer for both users and the environment. (The Economic Times, Indian Express)

Because cow dung is abundantly available in rural areas and gaushalas (cow shelters), the initiative also holds the potential to generate additional revenue for farmers. Early estimates suggest that per cow, farmers/gaushalas could earn approximately ₹30,000 per year from this kind of material usage.

Paper Made from Cow Dung: Rajasthan’s Example

In Rajasthan, the Kumarappa National Handmade Paper Institute, a unit of KVIC, has been producing paper by blending cow dung with rag and traditional fibers. The paper not only keeps streets and shelters cleaner but also serves as a source of income for farmers. (IndiaTimes)

Gaushalas across districts like Jalore have adopted this approach. Cow dung that used to be waste is now raw material. In places where cattle are kept in large numbers, this offers an opportunity to convert a waste challenge into economic opportunity.

Expanding Scope: Cloth, Bricks, Rural Empowerment

Recent government initiatives extend beyond paint and paper:

• In Uttar Pradesh, authorities have announced pilot proposals to use tens of millions of kilograms of cow dung for making cloth and plastic-like materials—with production centers in cow shelters (gaushalas) to make those facilities more self-reliant. (Times of India)

• Programs are also underway to establish production units in every district that will manufacture cow dung paint, bricks made from cow dung, organic fertilizers, Panchgavya medicines, and dung-based biofuels. Many of these programs particularly target youth and women-led self-help groups, giving them training, market access, and infrastructure support.

Environmental & Social Impacts

These initiatives check multiple boxes:

• Waste reduction: Cow dung that might otherwise pollute or clog drains is instead used as raw material.

• Lower environmental footprint: Use of non-wood paper fibers prevents deforestation (or reduces pressure on forests), and paints free from heavy metals reduce chemical pollution.

• Rural income & social inclusion: Farmers, gaushala operators, and marginalized populations gain new revenue streams. Women’s self-help groups in various states are making cow dung products — decorations, bricks, ritual items — and earning livelihoods.

• Cultural alignment: Many of the products (paint, bricks, ritual décor) tie in with traditional practices, making adoption easier and giving greater acceptance among users.

Challenges & Outlook

While the promise is strong, there are hurdles:

• Scaling production while keeping quality consistent is difficult—especially ensuring hygiene, stability, and meeting regulatory standards.

• Market demand must be cultivated: many consumers are unaware or skeptical of cow dung products (odor, durability, appearance). Marketing and certification help.

• Supply chain logistics (collecting, drying, treating cow dung) need efficiency and investment.

Nevertheless, with government backing, community involvement, and successful pilot projects, many see cow dung for eco-products not just as novelty, but as a real contributor toward India’s climate, economic, and sustainable development goals.