Uttar Pradesh Achieves 40% Surge in Milk Production, Tops National Dairy Rankings
In a remarkable agricultural milestone, Uttar Pradesh has recorded a substantial 40% increase in milk production between the fiscal years 2016-17 and 2024-25. The state's output escalated from 277 lakh tonnes to an impressive 388 lakh tonnes, solidifying its position as the foremost milk-producing state across India.
Government Initiatives and Grassroots Efforts Drive Growth
Mukesh Meshram, the Additional Chief Secretary of the Animal Husbandry Department, attributed this significant rise to meticulously planned development and robust grassroots efforts spearheaded by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. He emphasized that Uttar Pradesh alone contributes 16% to the nation's total milk production, with five states collectively accounting for 54%.
Rural Women Lead Dairy Revolution
The dairy revolution in Uttar Pradesh has been predominantly led by rural women, marking a transformative shift in the economic landscape. Through the Uttar Pradesh State Rural Livelihood Mission, lakhs of women have actively engaged in dairy activities. In 31 districts, women self-help groups are collectively procuring nearly 10 lakh litres of milk daily, generating business worth approximately Rs 5,000 crore.
Approximately 4 lakh women farmers have been integrated into the dairy sector through five major companies operating within the state. This integration has provided a substantial boost to the rural economy, with the total turnover of these companies reaching around Rs 5,000 crore by February 2026.
Key Dairy Companies Fueling Expansion
The prominent dairy companies driving this growth include:
- Balinee Milk Producer Company in Bundelkhand
- Kashi MPCL in Purvanchal
- Samarthya MPCL in the Awadh region
- Shri Baba Gorakhnath Kripa MPCL in Gorakhpur division
- Srijani MPCL in the Terai region
Empowerment and Economic Transformation
Meshram highlighted that since 2017, women have been incorporated into the economic mainstream on an unprecedented scale, leading to their significant empowerment. "This record growth in milk production is not only a sign of economic strength but has also become a symbol of the changing image of Uttar Pradesh," he stated.
The dairy sector's expansion reflects a broader narrative of rural development and women's economic participation, positioning Uttar Pradesh as a pivotal player in India's agricultural and economic advancement.
