Krishnapriya's new beginning: Gift of hope from Minister

THRISSUR: Krishnapriya was disappointed with only receiving an A grade in the state school arts festival for Ottanthullal. Her disappointment was compounded by the fact that she had competed using the money from selling her beloved cow, Ammukutty, who was fully pregnant. Her sadness turned into joy yesterday.

Minister Chinchurani, having learned about Krishnapriya's situation through a newspaper report, fulfilled the promise made at the award ceremony by gifting her a new cow. The cow, named Lakshmikutty by Krishnapriya, is expected to give birth within two months. Lakshmikutty is a Freeswal hybrid, capable of producing 15-20 liters of milk a day if well taken care of.

This gesture brought happiness not only to Krishnapriya but also to her parents, Varantharapilly Kaniyamparambil Kumaran and his wife Omana. The family had previously sold two cows to start banana farming on their leased fifty cents of land. Kumaran had reluctantly sold Ammukutty to afford Krishnapriya's costume and other expenses for the school arts festival held in Kollam in January.

Krishnapriya, who achieved full A Plus in her SSLC, has joined Plus One, while her brother Ajay Krishna is in Plus Two. Both are thrilled to welcome the new addition to their family.

In addition to the cow, the Veterinary University, under the directive of Minister Chinchurani, provided 100 kg of fodder and a mineral mixture. An animal passport with information including the height and weight of the calf was also given.

The handover ceremony was held at Mannuthi Veterinary College farm premises, with Minister K. Rajan presiding over the event. Speeches were given by VC Dr. KS Anil, Academic Director Dr. Latha, Farm Director Dr. Shyam Mohan, District Animal Welfare Officer Dr. KB Jithendra Kumar, Kollam District Animal Welfare Officer Dr. D. Shinekumar, Deputy Director Dr. AV Shibu and Registrar Dr. P. Sudheer Babu.