Vaidehi Bhargava
National Milk Day is celebrated annually on 26 November in India to commemorate the birth anniversary of Dr. Verghese Kurien, widely known as the “Father of the White Revolution.” His pioneering efforts transformed India into the world’s largest producer of milk, revolutionizing the dairy industry and addressing critical issues of malnutrition and rural poverty.
The Significance of National Milk Day
National Milk Day highlights the importance of milk as a nutritional powerhouse and emphasizes the critical role of dairy farming in India’s economy. Milk and dairy products are staples in Indian households, offering essential nutrients like calcium, protein, and vitamins. The day also underscores the achievements of the White Revolution, which made milk affordable and accessible across the country.
Dr. Verghese Kurien’s vision and efforts were instrumental in establishing the Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation (GCMMF), which owns the famous Amul brand. Through Operation Flood, launched in 1970, Kurien spearheaded a movement that linked rural farmers to urban markets, empowering millions of small-scale dairy farmers, particularly women. The initiative transformed India from a milk-deficient country to a self-sufficient and surplus producer.
Dairy Industry and Rural Development
The dairy sector is a cornerstone of India’s rural economy, providing livelihoods to over 70 million farmers. Most of these farmers are smallholders, with limited land resources, and depend on dairy farming as a vital source of income. National Milk Day serves as a platform to acknowledge their contributions and raise awareness about their challenges.
Milk production also plays a pivotal role in women’s empowerment in rural areas. Women are often the primary caregivers of cattle, and the additional income from milk sales helps improve their economic standing and supports their families.
Health and Nutritional Benefits
Milk is celebrated for its immense health benefits. It is rich in calcium, which strengthens bones and teeth, and contains high-quality protein essential for growth and development. Milk is also a vital source of B vitamins, potassium, and magnesium, making it a complete food. National Milk Day encourages people to include milk and dairy products in their diets for a healthier lifestyle.
Summing Up
National Milk Day is more than just a tribute to Dr. Verghese Kurien; it is a celebration of India’s dairy farmers and their contribution to the nation’s self-reliance in milk production. It serves as a reminder of the transformative power of cooperative movements and sustainable rural development. On this day, initiatives like awareness campaigns, dairy exhibitions, and educational programs highlight the role of milk in nutrition and its economic significance for India.