Why is it in the news?
- On National Milk Day, November 26th, the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying released the “Basic Animal Husbandry Statistics 2023,”
Key Highlights
- Estimated at a substantial 230.58 million tonnes during the fiscal year 2022-23. This figure indicates an impressive growth of 22.81% over the past 5 years, showcasing the robustness of the dairy sector in India.
- Contrary to the positive trend in milk production, wool production has witnessed a decline. The statistics reveal a negative growth rate of 16.84% over the same 5-year period, suggesting challenges or shifts in the wool industry.
- The meat production sector has experienced significant growth, registering a commendable 20.39% increase over the past 5 years.
National Milk Day
- Celebrated on the 26th of November each year.
- This day is dedicated to honouring the legacy of Verghese Kurien, who is widely recognized as the “Father of the White Revolution in India.”
- Kurien’s contributions to transforming India into the largest global producer of milk are commemorated on his birth anniversary.
| Operation Flood (1970)
· Launched to augment milk production and make India self-sufficient in milk. · The success of Operation Flood has established India as the largest producer of milk globally, contributing a substantial quarter of the total production. |
Factors Contributing to Success
- Institution of cooperatives, especially for milk marketing, played a pivotal role in organizing and empowering dairy farmers.
- Substantial investments in milk processing facilities improved the efficiency and value addition in the dairy sector.
- Introduction of artificial insemination in cows led to the enhancement of dairy cattle breeds, contributing to increased milk yields.
- The absence of restrictive regulations on milk marketing and trade facilitated a more dynamic and competitive dairy industry.
Government Initiatives for Dairy Development
| Initiative | Objective |
| Rashtriya Gokul Mission | Focuses on the development and conservation of indigenous bovine breeds, recognizing their importance to the dairy sector. |
| National Livestock Mission | A comprehensive initiative aimed at entrepreneurship development and breed improvement in the livestock sector, including dairy. |
| Livestock Health & Disease Control Scheme | Designed to enhance animal health, ensuring the well-being of livestock, including dairy cattle. |
| National Programme for Dairy Development | Targeted at improving the quality of milk and milk products, addressing aspects of production, processing, and distribution. |
