Indian milk production soars by 63.56% in a decade, minister says

INDIA – India’s milk production has seen a remarkable rise of 63.56% over the past 10 years, growing from 146.3 million tonnes in 2014-15 to 239.2 million tonnes in 2023-24, according to Union Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, S.P. Singh Baghel.

The surge highlights India’s position as the world’s leading milk producer, a rank it has held since 1998, now contributing 25% to global milk output.

S.P. Singh Baghel noted that India’s annual milk production growth rate stands at 5.7%, far surpassing the global average of 2%. 

This increase has also boosted the per capita availability of milk in the country, which jumped by 48% over the last decade, reaching 471 grams per person per day in 2023-24 compared to the global average of 322 grams.

The minister credited government initiatives for this achievement. Schemes like the Livestock Health and Disease Control Programme, which focuses on vaccinations and veterinary infrastructure, have played a key role. 

“Our efforts to improve livestock productivity have paid off, making dairy farming a vital part of India’s economy,” Baghel said in his address. 

He also highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance the sector further, including plans to increase dairy exports.

A report by the Press Information Bureau earlier this year echoed these findings, stating that India’s dairy industry supports over 80 million farmers and contributes 5% to the national economy. 

The data also revealed regional contributions, with Uttar Pradesh leading milk production at 16.21%, followed by Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh. 

Meanwhile, the Basic Animal Husbandry Statistics 2024, released in November last year, showed a 4% annual rise in milk output for 2023-24, though growth has slightly slowed compared to previous years.

According to government records, the dairy sector has benefited from technological advancements like artificial insemination and breed improvement programs. 

“We aim to eradicate diseases like foot-and-mouth by 2030 to boost exports,” Baghel told the Lok Sabha, signaling a future-focused approach. 

Industry experts, including Jayen Mehta of the Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation, have praised the consistent 6% average growth over the decade, outpacing global trends.