Uttarakhand's Dairy Sector Shows Robust Growth with 3.1% Increase in Milk Production
In a significant development for the state's agricultural economy, Uttarakhand has reported a consistent upward trend in milk production, with current figures reaching 1,957.2 thousand tonnes. This marks an increase of approximately 3.1% over the 1,897.8 thousand tonnes recorded in the financial year 2024-25, as announced by Dairy Development Minister Saurabh Bahuguna in the state legislative assembly on Friday.
Steady Progress in Per Capita Milk Availability
Based on the estimated population, the per capita daily milk availability in Uttarakhand now stands at 456 grams. This figure is approaching the national average of 485 grams, highlighting the state's steady and commendable progress in enhancing dairy output. "The milk production in 2015-16 was 1,656 thousand tonnes, and production has grown consistently since then," Minister Bahuguna emphasized during his statement.
The minister's remarks came in response to a question raised by BJP MLA Brij Bhushan Gairola during the Question Hour session. Bahuguna provided detailed insights into the state's dairy dynamics, noting that the average daily milk production is 53.6 lakh kilograms, while the estimated daily consumption is around 50.3 lakh kilograms. This surplus indicates a healthy balance between supply and demand within the state.
Infrastructure and Cooperative Support
At present, Uttarakhand boasts 2,830 milk cooperative societies operating across various regions, playing a crucial role in streamlining production and distribution. These cooperatives are instrumental in supporting local farmers and ensuring efficient milk collection and processing.
Government Initiatives to Boost Dairy Sector
Minister Bahuguna further highlighted several key schemes aimed at boosting milk production and supporting local employment. These initiatives include:
- Ganga Gay Mahila Dairy: Focused on empowering women in dairy farming.
- Silage and Milch Animal Nutrition: Enhancing feed quality for livestock.
- Milk Price Incentive: Providing financial benefits to producers.
- State Livestock Mission: A comprehensive program for overall livestock development.
These efforts have yielded tangible results, with business worth Rs 399.5 crore generated from the Aanchal brand milk and its various products in the financial year 2024-25. "A business of approximately Rs 444 crore is expected in the financial year 2025-26," Bahuguna projected, underscoring the sector's growing economic contribution.
Budgetary Allocations for Future Growth
The state's dairy development budget for the current fiscal year is Rs 93 crore, with a proposed allocation of Rs 140 crore for the next financial year. This increased funding reflects the government's commitment to further strengthening the dairy infrastructure and supporting sustainable growth in the sector.
Overall, Uttarakhand's dairy industry is on a positive trajectory, with increased production, improved per capita availability, and robust government support paving the way for continued advancement and self-sufficiency in milk supply.
