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India has become the world's leading milk producer and aims to increase its milk production to 300 million metric tonnes (MMT) in the next five years, according to Union Minister of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Rajiv Ranjan Singh.

 

The minister made the announcement in the Lok Sabha, emphasising the growth achieved under the Rashtriya Gokul Mission (RGM) since its launch in 2014.

 

Singh highlighted that since the introduction of the RGM, India's milk production has surged by 63.5 per cent. The government hopes to boost production by a further 15 per cent over the next three years to meet the target.

 

Currently, India's milk production stands at 239 MMT, and the new target marks a significant step in strengthening the dairy sector.

 

The Rashtriya Gokul Mission, initiated by the Modi administration, focuses on improving the productivity of indigenous cattle breeds, conserving their genetic qualities, and making milk production more profitable for farmers.

 

The scheme, initially launched in 2014, has been extended under revised guidelines from 2021 to 2026.

 

The RGM aims to enhance bovine productivity through advanced breeding technologies and the use of high-genetic merit bulls.

 

It also seeks to expand artificial insemination coverage, providing doorstep services to farmers to encourage better breeding practices. The mission promotes the rearing of native cattle and buffaloes to strengthen India's dairy resources.

 

A notable aspect of India's dairy sector is the significant role played by women, who constitute 75 per cent of the estimated 100 million people involved in milk production.

 

This has not only empowered women in rural areas but also contributed to the industry's expansion. India's per capita milk consumption currently stands at 471 grams, highlighting the sector's impact on nutrition and livelihoods.

 

The government's efforts to strengthen the dairy sector aim to sustain the growing demand for milk while supporting the economic welfare of farmers.

 

As India moves towards its ambitious target, the focus remains on sustainable practices and enhancing the productivity of its bovine population.