Celebrating Excellence in Dairy Farming
The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD) has announced the winners of the National Gopal Ratna Awards (NGRA) for 2024. These prestigious awards recognize outstanding contributions in the livestock and dairy sectors. The winners will be honored during the National Milk Day celebrations on November 26, 2024, at the Manekshaw Centre in New Delhi. The Union Minister, Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh, along with other dignitaries, will present the awards in a grand ceremony. This event highlights the importance of dairy farming and the individuals who contribute significantly to this vital sector.
Understanding the National Gopal Ratna Awards
The National Gopal Ratna Awards aim to acknowledge and encourage individuals and organizations involved in animal husbandry and dairying. The awards focus on three main categories: Best Dairy Farmer rearing indigenous cattle or buffalo breeds, Best Artificial Insemination Technician (AIT), and Best Dairy Cooperative or Milk Producer Company. These categories recognize the hard work and dedication of farmers, technicians, and cooperatives in promoting dairy development.
This year, the DAHD has introduced a special award for the North Eastern Region (NER) in all three categories. This initiative aims to promote dairy development activities in these states, which have unique challenges and opportunities. The awards not only celebrate individual achievements but also encourage the growth of the dairy sector across India.
Categories and Winners of the 2024 Awards
The National Gopal Ratna Awards are divided into three main categories, each with its own set of winners.
- Best Dairy Farmer Rearing Indigenous Cattle/Buffalo Breeds: This category recognizes farmers who excel in rearing indigenous breeds. The first prize goes to Smt. Renu from Jhajjar, Haryana, followed by Shri Devendra Singh Parmar from Shajapur, Madhya Pradesh, and Smt. Surbhi Singh from Bijnor, Uttar Pradesh. A special award in this category for the NER is given to Ms. Juna Tamuli Barman and Mrs. Junuma Mali from Assam.
- Best Dairy Cooperative/Milk Producer Company: This category honors cooperatives that significantly contribute to the dairy sector. The Gabat Milk Producers Cooperative Society Limited from Aravali, Gujarat, and the Milk Producer Cooperative Society Limited Bisanal from Bagalkot, Karnataka, share the first prize. The second and third prizes go to Pratppura Dugdh Utpadak Sahakari Samiti Limited from Bhilwara, Rajasthan, and TND 208 Vadapathy MPCS Ltd from Cuddalore, Tamil Nadu, respectively. The special award for the NER in this category is awarded to Kamdhenu Dugdha Utpadak Samabay Samitee Ltd from Bajali, Assam.
- Best Artificial Insemination Technician (AIT): This category recognizes technicians who excel in artificial insemination practices. The first prize is shared by Shri Bhaskar Pradhan from Subarnapur, Odisha, and Mr. Rajender Kumar from Hanumangarh, Rajasthan. The second prize goes to Mr. Virender Kumar Saini from Hanumangarh, and the third prize is awarded to Shri V Anil Kumar from Annamayya, Andhra Pradesh. The special award for the NER in this category is given to Shri Md. Abdur Rahim from Kamrup, Assam.
The Significance of Livestock and Dairy in India
The livestock sector plays a crucial role in India’s economy. It contributes significantly to the agricultural sector and provides livelihoods for millions of people. Livestock farming, particularly dairy, is vital for small and marginal farmers, landless individuals, and women. It offers a source of income and nutrition for many families.
Indigenous bovine breeds are particularly important. They possess unique genetic traits that can enhance productivity and sustainability in dairy farming. However, these breeds face challenges, including declining populations and underperformance. To address these issues, the DAHD launched the “Rashtriya Gokul Mission” in December 2014. This initiative aims to conserve and develop indigenous breeds, ensuring their contribution to the national economy.
In conclusion, the National Gopal Ratna Awards not only celebrate individual achievements but also highlight the importance of the dairy sector in India. By recognizing the efforts of farmers, technicians, and cooperatives, these awards encourage further development and sustainability in livestock and dairy farming.
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