June 4, 2021
The value of the output of milk is more than Rs. 7.72 lakh crore during 2018-19 at current prices which is more than the value of the output of wheat and paddy together.
Addressing a virtual programme organized on the occasion of World Milk Day, Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying Giriraj Singh said that at current prices, the value of milk output exceeds Rs. 7.72 lakh crore in 2018-19, which is greater than the value of wheat and paddy output combined. India produced 198.4 million tons of milk during 2019-20. The milk production in India has grown at an average 6.3 per cent annually during the last six years. The minister announced the launch of the National Awards called the Gopal Ratna Awards for the cattle and dairy industries.
He mentioned those eligible farmers, dairy cooperative societies or AI technicians can apply online for the award and the portal will open from 15th July 2021. The winners of the award will be announced on 31st October 2021.
Singh also mentioned that milk production has increased at an average annual rate of 6.3 per cent per year during last 6 years whereas world milk production is growing at the rate of 1.5 per cent per year.
The virtual event saw the presence of Minister of State, Fisheries Animal Husbandry & Dairying Sanjeev Kumar Balyan and Pratap Chandra Sarangi.