India Produces 239 Million Tonnes of Milk: A Decade of Dairy Dominance
India’s dairy sector has reached a historic milestone, producing 239.30 million tonnes of milk in 2023–24, up from 146.30 million tonnes in 2014–15—a 63.56% increase over 10 years.
This growth cements India’s position as the world’s largest milk producer, contributing nearly 25% of global supply.
Dairy now contributes 5% to India’s national economy, making it the largest agricultural product in the country. According to the Press Information Bureau, the sector directly employs over 8 crore farmers, many of whom are women and smallholders.
8 Crore Farmers & Women Entrepreneurs Drive Dairy Growth
One inspiring example is Smt. Gurvinder Kaur from Ajoli village, Punjab. Trained in 2014, she started with one Holstein Friesian cow and scaled up to four, producing 90 liters of milk daily. Her investment in:
- Milking machines
- Chaff cutters
- Silage units
helped her supply to Verka dairy and local markets, turning her into a successful entrepreneur and role model for rural women.
India’s Dairy Sector: Anchoring Nutrition and Income Security
✳ Over the past decade, India’s dairy sector has shown a remarkable growth. Milk production rose by 63.56% from 146.30 million tonnes in 2014–15 to 239.30 million tonnes in 2023-24
✳ The country has maintained an… pic.twitter.com/WTGRXbt2LT
— PIB India (@PIB_India) September 29, 2025
Per Capita Milk Supply Rises to 471g/Day
India’s per capita milk availability has jumped by 48%, reaching 471 grams/day in 2023–24—far above the global average of 322 grams/day. This surge supports nutritional security across all age groups, especially children and the elderly.
Milk is a near-complete food, rich in:
- Proteins
- Calcium
- Magnesium
- Potassium
- Vitamins and milk fat
Its role in bone health, growth, and immunity makes it central to India’s food strategy.
565 Lakh Artificial Inseminations in 2024–25: Boosting Breed Quality
To sustain productivity, India carried out 565.55 lakh artificial inseminations in 2024–25. This scientific breeding effort improves:
- Milk yield
- Breed resilience
- Disease resistance
It complements programs like the Rashtriya Gokul Mission, which focuses on genetic upgradation and the conservation of indigenous breeds.
Can India Sustain Its Dairy Momentum?
With 239 million tonnes of milk, 8 crore farmers, and 471g daily supply, India’s dairy sector is not just growing—it’s transforming lives.
The integration of technology, women’s leadership, and nutritional focus makes it a model for inclusive rural development.
