India’s Milk Production Soars to New Heights
India continues to lead the world in milk production, contributing a remarkable 25% of the global supply. Over the past decade, milk output has surged by 63.56%, rising from 146.3 million tonnes in 2014-15 to an impressive 239.2 million tonnes in 2023-24. This growth, averaging 5.7% annually, significantly outpaces the global average of 2% per year, while per capita milk availability in India has also increased by 48% during this period.
Government Initiatives to Boost Dairy Sector
The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying is actively implementing several schemes to enhance milk production and improve processing infrastructure across the country. One of the key initiatives is the National Programme for Dairy Development (NPDD), which comprises two main components. The first component focuses on strengthening infrastructure for quality milk testing and establishing primary chilling facilities for various dairy cooperatives and farmer organizations. The second component aims to boost the sales of milk and dairy products by improving farmers’ access to organized markets and upgrading processing facilities.
In addition to NPDD, the Supporting Dairy Cooperatives & Farmer Producer Organisations (SDCFPO) scheme provides financial assistance to state dairy cooperatives facing market challenges. This support includes interest subvention on working capital loans, helping these organizations navigate adverse conditions. Furthermore, the Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (AHIDF) facilitates funding for projects aimed at enhancing processing and value addition in the dairy sector, benefiting individual entrepreneurs and cooperatives alike.
Focus on Indigenous Breeds and Health Programs
The Rashtriya Gokul Mission (RGM) is another significant initiative aimed at increasing milk production through the conservation and development of indigenous bovine breeds. This mission seeks to enhance the genetic quality of the country’s cattle population, ultimately leading to improved productivity. Additionally, the National Livestock Mission (NLM) emphasizes entrepreneurship development and breed improvement across various livestock sectors, including poultry, sheep, goats, and pigs.
To ensure the health of livestock, the Livestock Health and Disease Control Programme (LHDCP) provides essential vaccinations against diseases, strengthens veterinary services, and enhances disease surveillance. These comprehensive efforts are crucial for maintaining a robust dairy industry and ensuring the well-being of animals.
Raising Awareness Through Digital Campaigns
The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying is also committed to promoting the nutritional benefits of milk through social media campaigns. These initiatives include awareness posts, infographics, and engaging content designed to reach a wider audience. By leveraging digital platforms, the department aims to educate the public about the importance of milk in a balanced diet, thereby encouraging increased consumption.
This information was shared by Union Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel, during a recent session in Lok Sabha. The government’s ongoing efforts reflect a strong commitment to not only maintaining India’s status as the top milk producer but also enhancing the overall health and productivity of the dairy sector.
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