India’s milk production reaches 239.3M tonnes

INDIA – India’s milk production has reached 239.30 million tonnes in 2023-24, marking a significant increase from 146.31 million tonnes in 2014-15. 

Reported by official sources, this 63.55% growth underscores the country’s continuous efforts in dairy development and productivity enhancement.

A report by industry experts indicates that despite the steady rise in production, the productivity of indigenous bovine breeds remains lower than in advanced dairy nations. 

This has been attributed to factors such as low genetic potential and inadequate nutritional management. 

However, India has made substantial strides in improving milk yield, with overall bovine productivity rising from 1,640 kilograms per animal per year in 2014-15 to 2,072 kilograms in 2023-24. 

According to analysts, this 26.34% increase represents the highest productivity gain recorded by any country globally.

Productivity gains have been particularly notable among indigenous and non-descript cattle, whose average yield has increased from 927 kilograms per animal per year in 2014-15 to 1,292 kilograms in 2023-24.

Buffalo productivity has also risen from 1,880 kilograms per animal per year in 2014-15 to 2,161 kilograms in 2023-24. 

Experts have pointed out that these improvements reflect ongoing advancements in breed development and dairy management.

The Rashtriya Gokul Mission is leading efforts to further boost milk production and productivity, with a target of increasing bovine productivity to 3,000 kilograms per animal per year by 2030.

According to officials, the initiative is centered on enhancing the genetic potential of dairy animals and promoting better feeding practices. 

A senior government representative stated, “India’s dairy sector is the backbone of rural livelihoods, and by improving breed quality and nutrition, we are ensuring long-term sustainability and growth.”

Dairy sector stakeholders believe that continued investments in genetic improvement and nutrition will be essential in maintaining production growth. 

A dairy farmer from Uttar Pradesh remarked, “Better breeding programs and improved feed quality have already made a difference, and we are optimistic that further advancements will help us increase yields even more.”

India remains one of the world’s largest producers of milk, and with sustained efforts in breed improvement and farm management, the country is expected to further solidify its position as a global dairy leader.