Exam-Focused Notes on National Dairy Sector Developments

National Milk Day

• Observed on 26th November to honor Dr. Verghese Kurien, "Father of the White Revolution".
• Acknowledges the contributions of 8 crore farmers in sustaining India’s leading position in global milk production, which is approximately 25% of the world's output.

Historical Development

• 1950s-1960s: India faced milk shortages and depended on imports.
• National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) established in 1965; aimed to replicate the Anand cooperative model.
• Operation Flood (1970): Enhanced milk production and supply systems, leading to a transformation into the largest milk producer globally.
• NDDB recognized as an Institution of National Importance in 1987.

Recent Progress and Economic Indicators

• Recent Growth (2014-2024):
  • Milk production increased from 146.30 million tonnes to 239.30 million tonnes (63.56% increase).
  • Per-capita milk availability rose from 124 grams to 471 grams daily.
  • Boasting 303.76 million bovines, including cattle and buffalo.

Key Government Schemes

1. Rashtriya Gokul Mission (2014):

   • Focus on conserving indigenous cattle breeds and improving genetic potential.
   • Revised in March 2025: Allocation of Rs. 3,400 crore for 2021-2026.
   • Over 92 million animals benefited, supporting 56 million farmers.

2. National Artificial Insemination Programme (NAIP):

   • Free doorstep insemination services benefitted 9.16 crore animals with 14.12 crore inseminations conducted.
   • 22 IVF laboratories established for advanced reproductive techniques.

3. National Programme for Dairy Development (NPDD):

   • Restructured in July 2021; focuses on improving milk quality and enhancing infrastructure.
   • Goals include establishing 21,902 new dairy cooperative societies with Rs. 407.37 crore financial assistance.

Milestones & Infrastructure Development

• 31,908 dairy cooperative societies organized, increasing milk procurement by 120.68 lakh kilograms daily.
• New infrastructure includes bulk milk coolers, milk testing laboratories, and processing facilities.

Legislative and Policy Changes

• GST Reforms (September 2025): Tax rationalizations on dairy products, reducing costs for producers and consumers. Key changes included:
  • Ultra-High Temperature (UHT) milk now tax-free.
  • Dairy products shifted from 12% to 5% slab or exempted from GST.

Sustainable Initiatives

• White Revolution 2.0 (2024-29): Seeks to strengthen dairy cooperatives, focusing on women’s participation and sustainability.
• Establishes specialized cooperatives for input supply, organic manure, and waste management.

Major Developments

• Sabar Dairy Plant: Inaugurated in October 2025, the largest facility in India for curd, buttermilk, and yogurt production, enhancing regional dairy supply.
• Women represent about 70% of the dairy workforce particularly thriving within cooperatives.

Future Direction

• Projections indicate India will contribute 32% to global milk supply by 2025-26, with a target of 242 million tonnes.
• Efforts to increase processing capacity to 100 million liters by 2028-29.
• Comprehensive livestock data collection under the Pashudhan initiative to underpin effective policy making.

Recognition

• National Gopal Ratna Awards 2025 recognizing outstanding contributions in dairy sector to be presented on National Milk Day, promoting innovation and excellence within the industry.

These encompass vital aspects of India's dairy sector transformation and the associated policies, programs, and outcomes that underpin its growth trajectory.