A Madhya Pradesh government-funded research project aimed at exploring cancer treatment through traditional cow-based formulations has come under scrutiny amid allegations of financial mismanagement and questionable expenditure over several years.
The initiative, launched in 2011 at the Nanaji Deshmukh Veterinary Science University in Jabalpur, focused on Panchagavya—a mixture derived from cow dung, cow urine and dairy products—as a possible remedy for serious diseases, including cancer. While the university had initially sought around ₹8 crore for the project, the state government approved funding of ₹3.5 crore.
Following a complaint submitted to district authorities, the Divisional Commissioner ordered a detailed review of the project. An investigation team led by an Additional Collector was subsequently formed to examine how the funds were utilised and to assess the project’s outcomes.
Sources familiar with the inquiry said the team’s findings, now submitted to the Collector, raised concerns about both financial oversight and the scientific output of the research. The report reportedly points to expenses that appeared significantly higher than market prices and included purchases that did not align with the project’s stated objectives.
Investigators are said to have found that between 2011 and 2018, nearly ₹1.92 crore was spent on basic materials such as cow dung, cow urine, storage containers, raw materials and machinery—items they believe should have cost only ₹15–20 lakh at prevailing rates. The report also questions the justification for 23 to 24 air journeys undertaken by the research team to various cities during the project period, Indian Express reported.
The inquiry further flagged the purchase of a vehicle worth about ₹7.5 lakh, which was allegedly not part of the original approved budget. Spending of more than ₹7.5 lakh on fuel and vehicle maintenance, roughly ₹3.5 lakh on labour, and around ₹15 lakh on furniture and electronic equipment was also cited, with investigators reportedly describing these costs as unnecessary for the research aims.
Additional Collector Raghuvar Maravi said the investigation was initiated on the Collector’s directions, noting that while the university had sought ₹8 crore under the Panchagavya scheme, only ₹3.5 crore was sanctioned. He added that the probe revealed discrepancies, including missing vehicles and the absence of any mention of travel expenses in the original estimates.
University authorities, however, have denied any wrongdoing. Registrar Dr S S Tomar said the institution had adhered to all government procurement norms and financial rules, asserting that the Panchagavya project has been carried out transparently since 2012. He also highlighted the project’s engagement with rural communities as part of its ongoing work.
The Collector is expected to forward the investigation report to the Divisional Commissioner, who will review the findings and decide on the next course of action.