Milk is the Topmost Agricultural Product in India: Dr RS Sodhi, President, IDA

World Milk Day is a global celebration of the dairy industry's contributions to health and nutrition. Held annually on June 1, it raises awareness about the importance of milk and dairy products. On the said occasion, Dr RS Sodhi, President of the Indian Dairy Association (IDA) shared an exclusive message with Krishi Jagran.

As part of it, he said, “On this day, if anyone deserves applause, it is the 8 crore dairy farmers of India. They have scaled up the industry and helped the country attain the number one spot as against the milk deficiency we faced 50 years ago. Today, milk is the topmost agricultural product in India.”  

He continued, “In the past 50 years, the population of the country rose to 2.5% and the milk production went up to 10%. Moreover, for consumption as well an average Indian spends up to 85 rupees on a thali. In that, milk and milk products are about 20%, i.e. 17 rupees. This feat has been achieved without any subsidies or MSP. The accomplishment is globally recognized; India’s dairy farmers have clinched the first spot in the world.”  

He also highlighted the critical role played by dairy cooperatives in the supply chain which empowers farmers. “They gain 70 to 80 percent profit due to this.”

Besides, he mentioned that dairy farming can help landless and marginal farmers achieve a good income. “In the coming 25 years, if there is an industry that will grow it is dairy. Policymakers and political leadership should recognize how dairy farmers can contribute to India’s food security and livelihood.”

Moreover, he further noted that the biggest challenge dairy farmers will face is how to reduce the cost of milk per liter. “Such will be possible if better feeding and breeding practices are followed. Only then, the next generation will be able to have a good source of income.”

Finally, he congratulated one and all on World Milk Day.