Gujarat Ranks Fourth in India’s Milk Production, Strengthens Animal Health Initiatives

Gujarat has emerged as a significant contributor to the Indian dairy industry, ranking fourth in annual milk production nationwide, according to the state's Animal Husbandry Minister Raghavji Patel. Speaking at a state-level seminar at Gujarat National Law University (GNLU), Gandhinagar, Patel highlighted Gujarat’s strong performance in dairy development, crediting the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel.

Animal Health and Dairy Growth Go Hand in Hand

The minister emphasised that milk production is directly linked to animal health. He noted that India contributes nearly 25% of global milk output, with Gujarat’s veterinary infrastructure and disease prevention programs playing a key role in sustaining growth.

Key initiatives include:

• Mobile veterinary clinics to expand rural access
• Subsidized Artificial Insemination (AI) and IVF services
• Livestock insurance schemes
• Large-scale vaccination campaigns against diseases like Lumpy Skin Disease

New Veterinary Centres and Skill Development

As part of the event, 31 newly established veterinary centres across 10 districts were inaugurated, built at a cost of ₹19.98 crore. Under the National Gokul Mission, 217 MAITRI technicians (trained in artificial insemination) received kits and certificates.

Additionally, 31 top-performing veterinary students were honoured with the ‘Student of the Year’ award, and ₹40,000 insurance claims were disbursed to eligible livestock owners.

Industry Collaboration and Future Outlook

The seminar, themed “Animal Health in a Changing World: Innovation, Disease Prevention & Welfare”, brought together senior officials, NDDB representatives, private dairy cooperatives, veterinary colleges, and research institutions. Technical discussions focused on disease diagnostics, vaccination strategies, and innovative solutions to strengthen livestock welfare. Minister Patel also released the annual report of the All Gujarat Veterinarians Social Security Trust and the directory of the Gujarat Veterinary Technical Officers Association.

“This seminar will serve as a catalyst for doubling the growth of Gujarat’s animal husbandry sector,”