The state government has established the Nand Baba Milk Mission project at a cost of Rs 1,000 crore in order to make Uttar Pradesh a leader in milk development and production. The Nand Baba Milk Mission plan allows milk farmers to sell their milk at an affordable price in communities through cooperative dairy groups.
Dharampal Singh, Cabinet Minister for Livestock and Dairy Development, stated that the department is constantly working to guarantee the growth of the state’s rural economy, to offer farmers profitable rates for their milk, and to enhance agro-based infrastructure.
According to Dharampal Singh, Cabinet Minister for Livestock and Dairy Development, it is recommended under this mission to establish a Dairy Farmer Producer Organisation (Dairy FPO) to simplify the selling of milk in the farmers’ communities.
In the fiscal year 2023-24, there is a proposal to establish five Dairy FPOs in as many districts of the state as a pilot project, with women playing an important role, he added.
Aside from the opening of the Nand Baba Milk Mission office in Kisan Gomtinagar, a ‘Dairy Development Portal’ and the Nand Baba Mission logo have also been launched.
Overview of the Indian Dairy System
- The Indian dairy industry contributes significantly to world milk production, accounting for 24% of total output.
- The main states in milk production in India are Uttar Pradesh (14.9%), Rajasthan (14.6%), Madhya Pradesh (8.6%), Gujarat (7.6%), and Andhra Pradesh (7.0%).
- Dairy is the largest agricultural commodity, contributing 5% to the national economy, a 6.4% increase in the previous five years.
- The dairy sector directly or indirectly employs over 8 crore people.
Important Facts Related to Milk Production
- Uttar Pradesh is a major player in India’s dairy sector, having a strong presence in milk production, processing, and distribution via various cow farms and cooperatives.
- Various cow breeds, including Murrah buffaloes, Sahiwal, and Gir, contribute to the state’s milk supply.
- Uttar Pradesh has a well-developed milk processing infrastructure, including pasteurisation, packaging, and the manufacturing of milk-based products like ghee, paneer, and curd.
- Doodh Peda, Lassi, Rabri, and Chhena are among the famous milk-based products in the state.
- The dairy industry in Uttar Pradesh creates jobs and contributes considerably to the state’s economy. Government efforts aim to improve milk quality, increase output and offer farmers with assistance and training.