Amit Shah stated that India has witnessed a remarkable 51% increase in milk production

Amit Shah stated that India has witnessed a remarkable 51% increase in milk production over the past eight years, making it the fastest-growing in the world. Cooperative dairies have played a crucial role in this success, with most milk production in the country now being handled through these entities, securing India’s position as the leading global milk producer with a 24% share.
Emphasizing the multifaceted benefits of cooperative dairy trading, Shah highlighted its positive impact on society, agriculture, villages, and milk producers. He stressed that when the cooperative sector engages in dairy business, the primary beneficiaries are the milk producers, as they are protected from exploitation.
Shah traced the roots of the cooperative dairy movement back to 1946 when a small dairy in Gujarat faced exploitation. Inspired by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, this led to the establishment of small dairies in 15 villages, marking the beginning of the white revolution in India. Amul processes 40 million liters of milk daily, contributing to a turnover of Rs. 72,000 crores in 2021-22.
Shah highlighted Prime Minister Modi’s vision of promoting cooperatives and the formal economy. He lauded the success of digital transactions in India, with nearly 80 countries seeking information on the country’s online payment system. Shah also shared initiatives, such as providing Rupay cards to farmers, making every village dairy a ‘Bank Mitra,’ and encouraging cashless transactions in rural areas.
The Minister of Cooperation urged NCDFI to take steps towards organic farming and emphasized the formation of multi-state cooperative institutions for marketing organic products. He also highlighted initiatives in seed conservation, promoting ethanol production from maize, and achieving self-reliance in the oilseeds sector.
Shah recognized the fight against malnutrition undertaken by many cooperative dairies, showcasing their efforts to provide nutritious milk and laddus to pregnant women and children. He expressed confidence in the potential of cooperative dairying to bring symmetrical milk production to every village in the country, contributing to household self-reliance.
The NCDFI headquarters, to be constructed at an estimated cost of Rs. 32 crores, will operate as a 100% green building, further supporting the cooperative dairy movement in India.
Source: Dairynews