NATIONAL MILK DAY 2023

The National Milk Day honours remarkable contributions of Dr Verghese Kurien to the dairy sector and emphasizes the nutritional value of milk. This day also recognizes his efforts in transforming India into the world’s largest milk producer.

In 2014, the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) and the Indian Dairy Association (IDA) first announced to celebrate National Milk Day on November 26 each year, marking the birth anniversary of Dr Verghese Kurien, the architect of India’s White Revolution.

Dr Verghese Kurien, born on November 26, 1921, in Calicut, Madras Presidency (now Kozhikode, Kerala), is not only known as the Father of the White Revolution in India but also as Milkman of India. His journey in the dairy industry began after returning from the USA, where he studied Mechanical Engineering. He played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Kaira District Cooperative Milk Producers Union Ltd, which later evolved into the renowned brand Amul.

His pivotal role in establishing the Anand model, a cooperative framework that brought together farmers to collectively own and manage dairy production, became the cornerstone of India’s dairy industry. The Amul cooperative, founded in 1946, was a testament to this model’s success, fostering self-sufficiency and enhancing the socio-economic status of farmers.

The National Milk Day serves as a reminder of Kurien’s relentless dedication and his transformative vision that propelled India to become the world’s largest milk-producing nation.

The significance of National Milk Day extends beyond just commemorating an individual; it’s a day to acknowledge the entire dairy industry’s impact on India’s economy and health. Milk, being a rich source of nutrients like calcium, phosphorus, and vitamins, plays a crucial role in the diet of millions. This day also serves as a reminder of the benefits of milk consumption and the importance of the dairy industry in India.

Interesting Facts about National Milk Day

India became the world’s largest milk producer during the White Revolution, surpassing the United States. 

Dr Kurien was awarded the Ramon Magsaysay Award for Community Leadership in 1963 for his contributions to the dairy industry. 

Amul, an Indian dairy cooperative, was a direct outcome of Dr Kurien’s efforts and is now a globally recognized brand.

The term ‘White Revolution’ symbolizes the massive growth in milk production and the dairy industry in India.

The cooperative model initiated by Dr Kurien is now replicated worldwide for dairy and other agricultural sectors.