Celebrating National Milk Day 2024: Honoring Dairy’s Legacy
The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD) marked National Milk Day 2024 with a grand celebration at the Manekshaw Centre in New Delhi. This event not only celebrated the 103rd birth anniversary of Dr. Verghese Kurien, known as the “Father of the White Revolution in India,” but also highlighted the significant contributions of the dairy sector to the Indian economy. The gathering brought together policymakers, farmers, and industry leaders to honor Dr. Kurien’s legacy and discuss the future of dairy in India.
A Day of Recognition and Awards
The event was graced by Union Minister Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh, who served as the Chief Guest, along with Ministers of State, Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel and Shri George Kurian, who were Guests of Honour. The ceremony included the presentation of the National Gopal Ratna Awards, which recognized outstanding contributions in three categories: Best Dairy Farmer for indigenous cattle/buffalo breeds, Best Artificial Insemination Technician, and Best Dairy Cooperative Society or Milk Producer Company. A new special award was also introduced for winners from the North Eastern Region, emphasizing the government’s commitment to inclusive growth across all areas.
The awards ceremony served as a platform to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of individuals and organizations that have significantly impacted the dairy sector. By celebrating these achievements, the DAHD aims to inspire others in the industry to strive for excellence and innovation. The participation of various stakeholders from the livestock and dairy sector across the country underscored the importance of collaboration in achieving sustainable growth.
The Economic Impact of Dairy Farming
In his address, Union Minister Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh emphasized the crucial role of the dairy sector in India’s economy. He pointed out that dairy is the largest agricultural commodity in the country, contributing 5% to the national economy and directly employing over 80 million farmers, many of whom are women. India leads the world in milk production, accounting for 24% of global output, with production reaching 230.58 million tonnes in the 2022-23 fiscal year.
The Union Minister highlighted that India’s per capita milk availability is 459 grams per day, significantly higher than the global average of 323 grams. He stressed that as India aims to become the third-largest economy in the world, the dairy sector’s contribution will be vital. The sector not only provides employment but also plays a key role in nutritional security, addressing hunger and malnutrition, and reducing inequalities.
Furthermore, he advocated for bringing the unorganized sector into the organized framework to enhance farmer incomes. The Gujarat Model of cooperative societies was cited as a successful example of this approach, which has effectively reduced the role of middlemen and increased farmers’ earnings. The Union Minister also called for the adoption of advanced technologies, such as Sex Sorted Semen, to improve breeding practices and increase coverage in dairy farming.
Empowering Women and Youth in Dairy
Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel, Minister of State, acknowledged the vital contributions of women and youth in the dairy sector’s success. He encouraged these groups to take on leadership roles and adopt innovative practices for sustainable development. The Minister praised the efforts of all stakeholders in maintaining India’s position as the top global milk producer, noting that while the global growth rate in milk production is around 2% annually, India has achieved an impressive growth rate of 6%.
He urged participants to enhance the coverage of Artificial Insemination (AI) and to adopt improved breeding technologies, such as sex-sorted semen and in vitro fertilization (IVF). Achieving a Foot and Mouth Disease-free status through regular vaccinations was also highlighted as a significant milestone for India.
Shri George Kurian, another Minister of State, emphasized the role of dairy cooperatives in empowering women and contributing to the economy. He called for improved infrastructure and veterinary support systems, especially in rural areas, to ensure equitable growth throughout the dairy value chain.
Future Directions for the Dairy Sector
Smt. Alka Upadhyaya, Secretary of DAHD, outlined the department’s ongoing efforts to enhance milk productivity through scientific interventions. She stressed the need for modernizing rural dairy infrastructure, fostering market linkages, and providing training to farmers. These initiatives are crucial for ensuring inclusive growth in the sector.
During the event, the Basic Animal Husbandry Statistics (BAHS) 2024 report was released, offering valuable insights into livestock and dairy sector trends. Additionally, a manual titled “SURABHI SHRINKHALA” was introduced, aimed at establishing a national milch herd and identifying superior germplasm among farmers.
The celebration also featured the Amul Clean Fuel Rally, showcasing the dynamic spirit of India’s dairy sector. Panel discussions on “Women-led Livestock and Dairy Sector” and “Empowering Farmers through Local Veterinary Support” highlighted the importance of women and local initiatives in shaping the future of dairy in India.
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