Dairy Growth Driving Rural Prosperity in India

Rising Dairy Output

Dairy Growth Driving Rural Prosperity in India: India’s dairy sector has witnessed record expansion in the past decade. Milk production surged from 146 million tonnes in 2014-15 to 239 million tonnes in 2023-24, marking a 70 percent increase. This makes India the world’s fastest-growing dairy producer, far ahead of other countries.

Static GK fact: India has been the world’s largest milk producer since 1998, contributing over 24% of global output.

Expanding Capacity

The country’s milk processing capacity stands at 660 lakh litres per day, with a target of reaching 100 million litres by 2028-29. Daily per capita milk availability rose significantly from 124 grams in 2014 to 471 grams in 2024, reflecting both supply growth and nutritional improvement.

Static GK fact: The per capita availability of milk is an important indicator used in the National Dairy Development Board’s reports.

Strengthening Cooperatives

The Ministry of Cooperation has prioritized farmer-centric growth by supporting dairy cooperatives. Over 33,000 new cooperatives were formed in the past year alone, and the goal is to create more than 75,000 by 2029. The plan ensures at least one cooperative in every Panchayat to boost inclusivity and access for small farmers.

New Multi-State Initiatives

Three multi-state cooperatives are under development. One will enhance animal feed production, disease management, and artificial insemination. Another will introduce cow dung management models for sustainable farming. The third will focus on the circular economy by using cattle remains productively. These efforts integrate technology with traditional practices.

Sabar Dairy Plant Milestone

The Sabar Dairy Plant in Haryana, inaugurated recently, is now India’s largest curd, buttermilk, and yogurt production hub. It has a capacity of 150 metric tonnes of curd, 3 lakh litres of buttermilk, and 10 lakh litres of yogurt daily. The plant supplies the National Capital Region and northern states, creating a strong market link for farmers.

Static GK fact: Haryana is among the top three states in India for per capita milk availability, with over 1,100 grams daily.

Benefits for Farmers

Over eight crore farmers are directly associated with the dairy sector. Access to cooperatives, low-interest loans, insurance, and subsidised seeds and fertilisers has supported their growth. Dairy has become a key driver of the rural economy, ensuring stable incomes and reducing dependence on crop cycles.

Future Vision

The government’s White Revolution 2.0 is designed to scale up milk processing, strengthen cooperative models, and improve sustainability. Under the vision of ‘Sahkar Se Samriddhi’, the sector aims to integrate rural producers into national markets, empowering farmers and ensuring nutritional security for the population.

Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table

Dairy Growth Driving Rural Prosperity in India: