Uttar Pradesh Government Seals Major Dairy Investments at Landmark Conclave
In a significant push to boost the dairy industry, the Uttar Pradesh government on Friday signed Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) totaling Rs 3,000 crore during a two-day conclave in Lucknow. The event, which attracted approximately 10,000 participants including animal husbandry practitioners, milk producers, and investors, was organized to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the state's Dairy Development Department.
Comprehensive Sessions and Strategic Discussions
The conclave featured a series of focused sessions covering expert discussions, government schemes, the latest technological advancements in dairy farming, indigenous breed cow rearing, and strategies for strengthening the rural economy. These discussions aimed to address key challenges and opportunities within the sector, fostering collaboration between stakeholders.
Minister Highlights Sector's Economic Impact and Achievements
Minister for Animal Husbandry, Dharampal Singh, emphasized the dairy sector's substantial contribution to the state's Gross State Value Added (GSVA), which stands at an impressive Rs 1.72 lakh crore. He detailed the department's proactive efforts, noting that 796 MoUs worth over Rs 25,000 crore have been executed, leading to the creation of more than 60,000 jobs.
Specifically, at this conclave, 59 MoUs valued at more than Rs 3,000 crore were signed with prominent entities such as Ananda Dairy, Gyan Dairy, and Param Dairy. These agreements are projected to generate over 13,000 additional employment opportunities, further bolstering the state's economy.
Initiatives and Support Programs
Under the Nand Baba Dugdh Mission, the government has distributed Rs 84 crore as grants to more than 10,000 beneficiaries through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). Additionally, more than 4,000 primary milk cooperative societies have been established across Uttar Pradesh, connecting approximately 1.5 lakh milk producers and enhancing their market access.
Uttar Pradesh's Dominance in Milk Production
Minister Singh highlighted Uttar Pradesh's position as the largest milk-producing state in India. He provided comparative data: in 2016-17, annual milk production was 277.70 lakh tons with a per capita availability of 352 grams per day. By 2025-26, production has surged to 1,836.85 lakh tons, and per capita availability has increased to 450 grams per day, reflecting significant growth and improved nutritional access.
Recognition and Awards
During the event, animal husbandry practitioners and entrepreneurs who demonstrated outstanding performance under various departmental schemes were honored. The Nand Baba Puraskar for 2024-25 saw cash rewards transferred via DBT to 139 beneficiaries, recognizing their contributions to the sector's development.
This conclave underscores the Uttar Pradesh government's commitment to revitalizing the dairy industry through strategic investments, technological adoption, and robust support mechanisms, aiming to sustain its leadership in milk production and economic contribution.
