National Milk Day is observed every year on November 26 in India to recognise the vital role of milk and the dairy industry in the nation’s progress. This day marks the birth anniversary of Dr. Verghese Kurien, widely known as the ‘Father of the White Revolution’ in India, whose efforts were instrumental in making India the world's largest milk producer. Here’s a closer look at the history and importance of this special occasion.
National Milk Day: Date And Theme
This year, National Milk Day will focus on the theme ‘Transforming Dairying with AI and IT.’ The event will honour the accomplishments of dairy champions and highlight their crucial contributions to the dairy industry. In addition, the prestigious 'National Gopal Ratna Awards' will be presented to recognise outstanding individuals in the sector.
The event will also feature the launch of two important publications. The first, Basic Animal Husbandry Statistics (BAHS)-2024, provides essential insights into trends in the livestock and dairy sectors, supporting data-driven policymaking. The second is a Manual on the Identification of Elite Cows, which aims to assist in developing a national herd of top-tier dairy animals. This initiative underscores the government's commitment to evidence-based decision-making and technological innovation in animal husbandry.
A key highlight of the celebration will be the conclusion of the All India Motor Rally, organised by Amul in partnership with Bajaj Auto. The rally, flagged off on November 19, 2024, by Union Minister of Home Affairs and Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah, in Himmatnagar, Gujarat, will bring participants from across the country to Dhaula Kuan, New Delhi. The rally will culminate at the Manekshaw Centre, where Union Minister Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh will welcome the participants.
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Additionally, the event will host two engaging panel discussions. The first, titled ‘Women-Led Livestock and Dairy Sector,’ will highlight the transformative role of women in the industry, focusing on gender inclusivity and empowerment. The second panel, ‘Empowering Farmers Through Local Veterinary Support,’ will explore strategies for strengthening local veterinary systems, a vital aspect of India’s rural economy, according to a Press Information Bureau report.
National Milk Day: Significance
National Milk Day seeks to inspire citizens involved in dairy production to actively contribute to improving dairy practices and animal-rearing methods. On this day, the prestigious National Gopal Ratna Awards are presented to recognise outstanding individuals and organisations. The awards honour the Best Dairy Farmer for rearing indigenous cattle or buffalo breeds, the Best Artificial Insemination Technician, and the Best Dairy Cooperative Society (DCS), Milk Producer Company, or Dairy Farmer Producer Organisation in the country.
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National Milk Day: History
The National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), the Indian Dairy Association (IDA), and 22 state-level milk federations collectively chose to observe Dr Verghese Kurien’s birth anniversary as National Milk Day on November 26, 2014, as per News18. Dr Kurien, renowned for spearheading India’s Operation Flood, the world's largest agricultural programme, earned the title of the ‘Father of the White Revolution.’ He is also credited with founding the iconic Amul brand and revolutionising dairy production in the country. In recognition of his contributions, he was honoured with India’s highest civilian awards: the Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Vibhushan.
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