Union Minister Hails Dairy Sector’s Role in Indian Economy on National Milk Day
Source: DairyNews.today
India marked National Milk Day 2024 with a high-profile celebration at New Delhi’s Manekshaw Centre, commemorating the 103rd birth anniversary of Dr. Verghese Kurien, the “Father of the White Revolution.” The event, organized by the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD) under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying, highlighted the transformative impact of the dairy industry on the nation’s economy and food security.
Union Minister Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh, addressing the gathering as Chief Guest, lauded the sector’s contributions, noting that dairy remains the largest agricultural commodity in India, accounting for 5% of the national economy and providing livelihoods to over 8 crore farmers, the majority being women.
Economic and Global Leadership in Dairy
India, ranked first globally in milk production, contributes 24% of global output, with a record 230.58 million tonnes produced in 2022-23. The country’s per capita milk availability of 459 grams per day surpasses the global average of 323 grams. Shri Singh emphasized the sector’s critical role in driving economic growth, ensuring nutritional security, and reducing inequality.
“The livestock and dairy sector generates employment, enhances farmer incomes, and addresses malnutrition and hunger,” Shri Singh said, adding that efforts to transition unorganized dairy operations into the organized sector would further boost farmer earnings.
Technology and Infrastructure Enhancements
Shri Singh advocated for the adoption of advanced technologies like sex-sorted semen and increased coverage of Artificial Insemination from the current 35% to over 70%. He also highlighted initiatives such as the “Pashudhan Data” program, efforts to improve livestock breeds, and the nationwide rollout of free vaccinations targeting Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) and Brucellosis, aiming for eradication by 2030. These measures, he stated, would position India as a leading milk exporter.
Recognition of Excellence
During the event, the National Gopal Ratna Awards were presented to winners in categories such as Best Dairy Farmer, Best Artificial Insemination Technician, and Best Dairy Cooperative Society. Special awards recognized achievements from the North Eastern Region, underscoring the government’s commitment to regional inclusivity.
Support for Women and Youth
Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel, Minister of State, underscored the vital role of women and youth in the dairy industry and encouraged them to embrace leadership roles. Highlighting India’s impressive 6% annual growth in milk production—triple the global average—he called for expanded use of breeding technologies like In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) and urged continued efforts to achieve FMD-free status through regular vaccinations.
Strengthening Rural Infrastructure
Shri George Kurian, Minister of State, stressed the importance of robust rural infrastructure and veterinary support systems to ensure equitable growth across the dairy value chain. He praised the role of dairy cooperatives in empowering women and strengthening the rural economy.
Reports and Milestones
The event saw the release of the Basic Animal Husbandry Statistics (BAHS) 2024 report and the manual Surabhi Shrinkhala, aimed at identifying elite cows to establish a national milch herd.
Celebrating Dairy Achievements
A key highlight was the Amul Clean Fuel Rally, which concluded at the venue with over 77 participants showcasing the achievements of India’s dairy sector. Panel discussions on “Women-led Livestock and Dairy Sector” and “Empowering Farmers through Local Veterinary Support” further spotlighted the sector’s progress and potential.
With sustained efforts in modernization, technology adoption, and cooperative development, India’s dairy sector remains poised to play a pivotal role in the country’s journey toward becoming a global economic powerhouse.
Economic and Global Leadership in Dairy
India, ranked first globally in milk production, contributes 24% of global output, with a record 230.58 million tonnes produced in 2022-23. The country’s per capita milk availability of 459 grams per day surpasses the global average of 323 grams. Shri Singh emphasized the sector’s critical role in driving economic growth, ensuring nutritional security, and reducing inequality.
“The livestock and dairy sector generates employment, enhances farmer incomes, and addresses malnutrition and hunger,” Shri Singh said, adding that efforts to transition unorganized dairy operations into the organized sector would further boost farmer earnings.
Technology and Infrastructure Enhancements
Shri Singh advocated for the adoption of advanced technologies like sex-sorted semen and increased coverage of Artificial Insemination from the current 35% to over 70%. He also highlighted initiatives such as the “Pashudhan Data” program, efforts to improve livestock breeds, and the nationwide rollout of free vaccinations targeting Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) and Brucellosis, aiming for eradication by 2030. These measures, he stated, would position India as a leading milk exporter.
Recognition of Excellence
During the event, the National Gopal Ratna Awards were presented to winners in categories such as Best Dairy Farmer, Best Artificial Insemination Technician, and Best Dairy Cooperative Society. Special awards recognized achievements from the North Eastern Region, underscoring the government’s commitment to regional inclusivity.
Support for Women and Youth
Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel, Minister of State, underscored the vital role of women and youth in the dairy industry and encouraged them to embrace leadership roles. Highlighting India’s impressive 6% annual growth in milk production—triple the global average—he called for expanded use of breeding technologies like In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) and urged continued efforts to achieve FMD-free status through regular vaccinations.
Strengthening Rural Infrastructure
Shri George Kurian, Minister of State, stressed the importance of robust rural infrastructure and veterinary support systems to ensure equitable growth across the dairy value chain. He praised the role of dairy cooperatives in empowering women and strengthening the rural economy.
Reports and Milestones
The event saw the release of the Basic Animal Husbandry Statistics (BAHS) 2024 report and the manual Surabhi Shrinkhala, aimed at identifying elite cows to establish a national milch herd.
Celebrating Dairy Achievements
A key highlight was the Amul Clean Fuel Rally, which concluded at the venue with over 77 participants showcasing the achievements of India’s dairy sector. Panel discussions on “Women-led Livestock and Dairy Sector” and “Empowering Farmers through Local Veterinary Support” further spotlighted the sector’s progress and potential.
With sustained efforts in modernization, technology adoption, and cooperative development, India’s dairy sector remains poised to play a pivotal role in the country’s journey toward becoming a global economic powerhouse.
