National Milk Day 2024: Know the History, Significance, Initiatives, Challenges and More

Every November 26, the country celebrates National Milk Day in recognition of the birth anniversary of Dr. Verghese Kurien "Father of the White Revolution." National Milk Day is a day to be remembered for the "White Revolution of India," transforming a self-sufficient dairy production system to help millions of rural farmers-many women engage in their cooperative models. The Indian Dairy Association (IDA) launched National Milk Day in 2014 to focus on milk's role as an essential food item and as a supportive economic structure in the country.

India's Dairy Revolution: History & Significance

It is a revolution if India was once a milk-deficient nation and is now the world's largest milk producer. The success of the program was spearheaded by Operation Flood in 1970 under Dr. Kurien, which established a nationwide milk grid by linking rural milk producers with urban markets. Production, which was only 20 tons in 1960, jumped to over 122 million tons in 2011 because farmers received more than 70% of the earnings due to their direct contact with consumers.

Cooperatives like Anand Milk Union Limited also referred to as Amul, gave ownership to the farmers and fair pricing, thereby increasing rural incomes and providing milk to consumers at low prices. Today, with over 1.94 lakh dairy cooperatives, the dairy industry supports approximately 80 million smallholder farmers, and these are substantial contributions towards rural livelihoods.

Government Support and Initiatives

The commitment of the government towards the dairy industry is seen through several schemes and investments. Rashtriya Gokul Mission involves the conservation of indigenous cattle breeds, and the Dairy Entrepreneurship Development Scheme supports small dairy businesses. Infrastructure development in milk processing and marketing has been supported through the National Programme for Dairy Development and the Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund. Other initiatives include programs like the Kisan Credit Card, which have made credit accessible to dairy farmers.

Dr. Verghese Kurien: The Milk Man of India

If we talk about Milk in India, The discussion would not be complete without the legend of Dr. V Kurien. His legacy continues to be inspired by his architectural vision for India's dairy revolution. It has given rural farmers the empowerment to make self-sufficient cooperatives. Amul and Operation Flood there prove development is the most sustainable when led by the people being served.

Sustainable Dairy Farming: Equilibrium between Growth and Ecology

Sustainable dairy farming is vital as it seeks to strike a balance between economic growth and environmental health. The farmers have started adopting natural farming techniques, efficient water use, and biogas generation to reduce the environmental footprint of dairy production. Efficient water management is an essential practice, especially in regions prone to drought. Innovative approaches to irrigation, for instance, drip systems, and recirculation of water back for cattle use are other conservation measures. Biogas from cattle manure has not only proven to be a source of renewable energy but also reduces greenhouse gas emissions. Such practices have long-term sustainability economically and environmentally and are in line with global climate change needs.

Dairy sector challenges and opportunities

There is climate change, water scarcity, low productivity, and largely weak dairy cold storage infrastructure. Rising temperatures and unpredictable weather stress the livestock and disrupt fodder supplies.

Beyond these challenges, however, there exist many growth opportunities. A whole value-added food product such as cheese and yogurt, can bring farmers better margins. Access to veterinary care, market prices, and direct sales are being amplified through digital platforms. India's milk products also have great potential for export in global markets, opening pathways for growth and diversification.

Milk Day is much more than just a celebration of milk; it is a recognition of the socio-economic transformation. The dairy industry, with its focus on sustainability, innovation, and inclusivity, is a cornerstone of growth in the nation and, to food security, rural development, and empowerment. As India innovates, the legacy of Dr Kurien reminds us that cooperative action can transform challenges into opportunities for a better future.