Dairy Development in India

Introduction

• India is the world's largest milk producer, contributing approximately 23% of global production.
• Dairy farming serves as an important means of support for over 80 million farmers.
• The dairy sector contributes around 4-5% to India's GDP.
• Dairy farming provides food security, nutrition, and income for rural families, impacting employment and nutrition.

Phases of Dairy Development in India

• Pre-Independence Era was characterized by traditional methods and low production.
• Early government initiatives marked the Post-Independence period (1950-70).
• Operation Flood (1970-96), also known as the White Revolution, was led by the NDDB.
• The Liberalization Era (1996-present) saw the growth of the private sector and modernization in the dairy industry.

Government Schemes and Funding

• The National Dairy Plan (NDP) aims to enhance the productivity of milch animals and increase milk production.
• The Rashtriya Gokul Mission focuses on the conservation and development of indigenous cattle breeds.
• The Dairy Entrepreneurship Development Scheme (DEDS) provides financial support for small-scale dairy businesses, including farm mechanization.

Funding and Subsidies

• NABARD (National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development) provides subsidized loans for dairy projects.
• Government subsidies are available to support cold storage, dairy processing units, and fodder development.
• Many states offer additional grants and financial support through state-level initiatives.

Per Capita Milk Availability in India

• India's current per capita milk availability is about 427 grams per day, which is higher than the global average.
• Punjab, Haryana, Gujarat, and Rajasthan have the highest milk production.
• India's milk availability is lower than some developed nations like the US but significantly higher than others.

Socio-Economic Impact of the Dairy Sector

• Over 80 million households are supported by dairy for their livelihoods.
• Women play a significant role in dairy farming, representing over 70% of the workforce in rural areas.
• The dairy industry generates jobs in production, processing, packaging, and distribution.

Geographic Features of the Dairy Industry

• Major dairy-producing states include Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Punjab, and Haryana.
• Cooler climates support better milk yields.
• Drought-prone regions face fodder shortages, which in turn affects production.
• Northern India has higher milk yields compared to Southern and Eastern states.

National Dairy Research Institute (NDRI)

• The NDRI is a research institute located in Karnal, Haryana.
• The institute focuses on dairy technology, breeding, and animal health through research and development.
• The NDRI provides education and practical training to dairy farmers through training programs.
• The institute supports genetic improvements and cross-breeding for the development of new dairy breeds.

National Dairy Development Board (NDDB)

• Established in 1965, the NDDB played a crucial role in Operation Flood.
• The NDDB's headquarters are located in Anand, Gujarat.
• The NDDB promoted self-sufficiency in milk production, introduced modern dairy technology, and cooperative models.
• Key brands under the NDDB include Amul, Mother Dairy, and other state-level brands.

Tamil Nadu Co-operative Milk Producers Federation (TCMPF)

• Aavin is the brand name of one of the largest dairy cooperatives in India.
• The TCMPF ensures fair pricing, cold storage facilities, and market access to support farmers.
• This provides a cooperative model that connects small dairy farmers to large processing units.

Structure of Dairy Manufacturing Sector

• The organized sector includes large dairy brands like Amul, Mother Dairy, Nestlé, Hatsun, and Britannia with modern processing units and advanced packaging.
• The unorganized sector consists of small-scale dairy farmers and local milk vendors, lacking proper infrastructure and quality control.
• Supply chain challenges include cold storage limitations, transport issues, and high costs.

Problems in Dairy Manufacturing Sector

• The lack of cold storage and supply chain issues results in nearly 20-30% of milk being wasted.
• Adulteration and quality concerns include issues with synthetic milk, contamination, and regulatory enforcement.
• Farmers struggle with price volatility and fluctuating milk prices, which impact their earnings.

Future of Dairy Development in India

• Technological innovations such as AI, IoT, and automated milking machines are improving efficiency.
• Sustainable dairy practices are reducing methane emissions and promoting organic dairy farming.
• There is expanding potential in the global market to compete with New Zealand, the EU, and the US.

Conclusion

• Dairy is vital for India's economy and rural development.
• Government support, private sector involvement, and modern technology are essential for future growth.
• There is a need for sustainable and efficient dairy farming practices.
• Strengthening dairy cooperatives and exports will drive India's dairy sector forward.