Haryana produces 36 per cent of India’s total milk output: Union minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh

Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying and Panchayati Raj Rajiv Ranjan Singh said on Saturday that the Haryana breed of cow has earned worldwide recognition. He stated that Haryana is playing a leading role in milk production and is contributing 36 per cent of the country’s total milk output, amounting to approximately 125.42 million tonnes.

The Union Minister urged the Haryana Government to establish cooperative societies in every village to benefit livestock farmers, noting that cooperatives can play a crucial role in increasing milk exports.

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Rajiv Ranjan Singh was speaking as the Chief Guest on the second day of the 41st State-Level Livestock Exhibition, held in Kurukshetra on Saturday.

He said that livestock farmers from across the state have brought high-quality animals to the fair being organised on the holy land of Kurukshetra, and their deep affection for animals is clearly evident. He pointed out that the livelihoods of nearly 10 crore people in the country depend on the livestock sector, which has also played a significant role in promoting women’s empowerment.

The Union Minister said that the Central Government has launched several schemes for the development of the dairy sector and that more such initiatives will be introduced in the future. At present, the livestock and dairy sector represent a market worth ₹19 lakh crore.

Referring to past progress, he said that in 2014, the country’s total milk production stood at 146.3 million tonnes. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi recognised the concerns of livestock farmers and gave focused attention to this sector. As a result, Animal Husbandry was separated from the Agriculture Department and established as an independent ministry to accelerate growth.

Due to the Prime Minister’s efforts, India’s milk production has now increased to 248 million tonnes, making the country the largest milk producer in the world. He added that livestock farmers will play a vital role in achieving the goal of Atmanirbhar Bharat.

The Union Minister said that for breed improvement, the Animal Husbandry Department is installing genomic chips in selected animals. These chips provide timely information about diseases and physiological changes and assist scientists in research.

He further stated that under the National Digital Livestock Mission (NDLM), the Central Government is administering Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) vaccines to animals. These vaccines are being provided free of cost in Haryana. Additionally, around 70 mobile veterinary clinics are currently operational across the state.