The Department of Animal Husbandry is gearing up to celebrate National Milk Day on 26th November 2022, coinciding with the 101st birth anniversary of Dr. Verghese Kurien, the man widely known as the ‘Father of White Revolution in India’. The day underscores the significance of milk and milk products in our lives, advocating for their several benefits.
Dr. Verghese Kurien and His Contribution
Born in 1921, Dr. Kurien’s groundbreaking initiative, ‘Operation Flood,’ positioned him as a pioneer in developing the world’s largest agricultural program. He was instrumental in establishing 30 institutions controlled by farmers and workers. His tireless efforts led India to outpace the U.S. in 1998 to become the largest producer of milk. Being at the helm of the Delhi Milk Scheme, he rectified pricing issues and also helped India become self-sufficient in edible oils. His remarkable contributions fetched him prestigious accolades such as Ramon Magsaysay Award (1963), Krishi Ratna (1986), and World Food Prize (1989). Additionally, he was bestowed with India’s highest civilian awards- Padma Shri (1965), Padma Bhushan (1966), and Padma Vibhushan (1999).
White Revolution of India
Operation Flood kick-started on 13th January, 1970, marking the onset of the world’s largest dairy development programme. This initiative effectively doubled the per capita availability of milk in India over 30 years, making dairy farming the country’s largest self-sustaining rural employment generator.
Phases of the White Revolution
The spearheading initiative underwent three different phases. Phase I (1970-1980) relied on the sale of butter oil and skimmed milk powder donated by the European Union through the World Food Program. During Phase II (1981 to 1985), the number of milk sheds rose from 18 to 136, and approximately 290 urban markets started receiving regular milk supplies. In Phase III (1985-1996), emphasis was laid on the expansion of dairy cooperatives and reinforcing the infrastructure required for procuring and marketing increasing volumes of milk.
Significance of the White Revolution
Operation Flood aimed to boost milk production, elevate rural earnings, and make sure consumers get milk at reasonable prices. It has enabled India to emerge as the largest producer of milk in the world in 2016-17, holding a share of 22% in global production. As dairy farmers gained full control over the resources they created, they could steer their own development.
Related Initiatives
To further foster the growth of the dairy and livestock sector, several initiatives have been introduced, including Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (AHIDF), National Animal Disease Control Programme, Rashtriya Gokul Mission, National Artificial Insemination Programme, and National Livestock Mission.
UPSC Civil Services Examination Question
In the previous year’s mains question, candidates were asked to elucidate various types of revolutions that have occurred in Agriculture post-Independence in India. Furthermore, they were also prompted to discuss how these revolutions have contributed to poverty alleviation and food security in the country.
