New Delhi || 27-11-2024
The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD), under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying, celebrated the National Milk Day 2024 on 26 November 2024 in New Delhi. The event commemorated the 103rd birth anniversary of Dr.VergheseKurien, the “Father of White Revolution in India,” and brought together policymakers, farmers, and industry leaders to honour his legacy.
The event was graced by Rajiv Ranjan Singh, Union Minister, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying and Ministry of Panchayati Raj as Chief Guest along with Ministers of State, Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel and George Kurian as Guests of Honour.
Role of the dairy sector is great impact on the Indian economy. Dairy is the single largest agricultural commodity, contributing 5 percent to the national economy and directly employing more than 8 crore farmers, the majority of whom are women. India is ranked First in milk production, contributing 24 percent of global milk production, with milk production reaching 230.58 million tonnes in 2022-23.
Addressing the gathering, Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh highlighted that India’s per capita milk availability stands at 459 grams per day in 2022-23, significantly higher than the world average of 323 grams per day in 2022. He said that as the country marches towards becoming the third largest economy in the world, the contribution of the dairy sector in it would be huge. The Union Minister said that the livestock and dairy sector produces huge employment opportunities, helps in nutritional security of the nation and addresses the challenges of hunger and malnutrition in the country which in turn helps in reducing inequalities.
MoS Prof. S.P.Singh Baghel in his speech, recognized the contributions of women and youth in driving the success of India’s dairy sector. He encouraged them to take up leadership roles in the industry and leverage innovative practices for long-term sustainability. He also, appreciated the efforts of the department and all stakeholders for keeping the number one position in global milk production. He mentioned that while the global growth rate in milk production is 2% annually, India’s production is growing at an impressive 6% annual rate.
MoS George Kurian appreciated the contributions of Dairy co-operatives in the Indian economy and their role in women empowerment. He highlighted the need for robust infrastructure and veterinary support systems, particularly in rural areas, to ensure equitable growth across the dairy value chain.
The event saw participation of stakeholders from the livestock and dairy sector from across the country. During the ceremony, Union Minister, Rajiv Ranjan Singh along with Ministers of State, Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel and George Kurian presented the National GopalRatna Awards to the winners in three categories: Best Dairy Farmer rearing indigenous cattle/buffalo breeds, Best Artificial Insemination Technician, and Best Dairy Cooperative Society (DCS)/Milk Producer Company/Dairy Farmer Producer Organization.A newly added Special award in each category was also conferred on winners from the North Eastern Region.
