Celebrating World Milk Day 2025: How India Has Dominated Dairy Production for 25 Years

Ludhiana: World Milk Day is celebrated on June 1 every year. This day highlights the essential role of milk in our diets and its importance globally. Established by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in 2001, it serves as a reminder of the benefits of dairy.

India has been the world’s largest producer and consumer of milk since 1998, a remarkable feat that continues to this day. In 2022-23, India produced 231 million metric tons of milk, contributing over 25% to global production. This production is valued at around ₹11.16 lakh crores.

Milk production worldwide has been on the rise. In 1992, the global figure stood at 524 million tons. By 2022, this increased to 930 million tons, with forecasts suggesting 979 million tons for 2024. In India, milk production is expected to reach 239.4 million tons in 2023-24, marking a 4% increase from the previous year. From 2014-15 to 2023-24, India experienced a striking 63.56% rise in milk production, leading it to consume 121.5 million tons in 2024, solidifying its position as the top consumer.

A recent study by Data for India shows that children in India consume about 300 ml of milk or dairy products daily. Notably, states like Haryana, Rajasthan, and Punjab account for about 30% of this consumption. There has also been a significant increase in adult consumption, rising from 60% in 2006 to 75% in 2021.

In terms of per capita milk consumption, rural areas recorded 164 grams per day, while urban areas had slightly higher at 190 grams daily, according to the Department of Fisheries and Animal Husbandry and Dairying. India’s livestock census reports over 303 million animals, including cows and buffaloes, with approximately 8 crore farmers engaged in dairy farming. Additionally, 1.58 million farmers are part of dairy cooperatives, collectively producing over 57 lakh liters of milk.

Dr. Ravinder Singh Grewal emphasizes the significance of milk, especially in a country with a vast vegetarian population. He highlights that milk is a primary source of protein for those who don’t eat meat, making it indispensable for healthy growth and development. “Milk is a complete food,” he remarks, packed with good fats, lactose, and essential vitamins.

Dairy farming is thriving across India, not just in Punjab. The government supports this sector with various schemes aimed at improving livestock, disease control, and offering training and subsidies. Farmers can earn significant profits from dairy sales, with up to ₹10 more per kg on buffalo milk if they market it directly.

The rise of social media has also enhanced awareness around dairy consumption, sparking discussions and trends that promote the nutritional benefits of milk. People are sharing recipes, health tips, and their own experiences with dairy products. This growing conversation showcases how integral milk remains in our lives, transcending beyond just being a drink to a vital part of various diets worldwide.



Source link

MILK, INDIA LEADING PRODUCER, MILK PRODUCER, WORLD MILK DAY 2025, WORLD MILK DAY 2025: INDIA LEADING PRODUCER FOR 25 YEARS