Revised National Programme for Dairy Development

The Union Cabinet of India has approved the Revised National Programme for Dairy Development (NPDD). This initiative, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, aims to enhance the dairy sector through financial investment and infrastructure development. The total budget for the NPDD has reached Rs. 2790 crore for the 15th Finance Commission cycle, covering 2021-22 to 2025-26.

Objectives

The primary goal of the Revised NPDD is to modernise and expand dairy infrastructure. This includes improving milk procurement and processing capacities. The programme aims to ensure better quality control and facilitate farmers’ access to markets. It focuses on enhancing pricing through value addition, thereby increasing rural incomes and encouraging development.

Components of the Programme

The Revised NPDD consists of two main components. Component A focuses on essential dairy infrastructure. This includes establishing milk chilling plants, advanced testing laboratories, and certification systems. It also promotes the formation of new village dairy cooperative societies, particularly in remote and backward areas. Component B, named “Dairying through Cooperatives (DTC)”, aims to strengthen dairy cooperatives through collaboration with Japan and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). This component targets nine states to improve production and marketing infrastructure.

Socio-Economic Impact

The NPDD has already made socio-economic impact. It has benefited over 18.74 lakh farmers and created over 30,000 jobs. The initiative has increased milk procurement capacity by an additional 100.95 lakh litres per day. It has also promoted advanced technology for milk quality testing. Over 51,777 village-level testing laboratories have been enhanced, and 5,123 bulk milk coolers have been installed.

Future Prospects

The Revised NPDD aims to establish 10,000 new Dairy Cooperative Societies. It also plans to form two new Milk Producer Companies (MPCs) with dedicated grant support. The programme is expected to create an additional 3.2 lakh employment opportunities, with a focus on women who make up 70% of the dairy workforce. The NPDD aligns with White Revolution 2.0, aiming to build a resilient dairy industry that benefits farmers and stakeholders.

Technological Advancements

The NPDD promotes cutting-edge technology for better milk testing and quality control. Advanced systems for detecting adulteration have been installed in 232 dairy plants. The programme also includes the upgrading of 169 labs with Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) milk analysers, enhancing the overall quality assurance in the dairy sector.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Examine the role of dairy cooperatives in enhancing rural livelihoods in India.
2. Critically discuss the socio-economic impacts of the Revised National Programme for Dairy Development.
3. Analyse the significance of technological advancements in the dairy sector.
4. Estimate the potential challenges in implementing the Revised National Programme for Dairy Development.

Answer Hints:

1. Examine the role of dairy cooperatives in enhancing rural livelihoods in India.

1. Dairy cooperatives provide a stable source of income for farmers by ensuring fair pricing for milk.
2. They facilitate access to markets, allowing farmers to sell directly, thus increasing their profit margins.
3. Cooperatives promote collective bargaining power, enabling better deals for inputs like feed and veterinary services.
4. They contribute to skill development and training, enhancing the capabilities of farmers in dairy management.
5. Women, who constitute portion of the dairy workforce, gain empowerment and economic independence through cooperatives.

2. Critically discuss the socio-economic impacts of the Revised National Programme for Dairy Development.

1. The NPDD has benefited over 18.74 lakh farmers, improving their livelihoods and economic stability.
2. It has created more than 30,000 jobs, contributing to rural employment and reducing poverty levels.
3. The increase in milk procurement capacity by 100.95 lakh liters per day supports local economies and food security.
4. The program promotes technological advancements in dairy practices, enhancing productivity and quality control.
5. By establishing new cooperatives, the NPDD encourages community development and social cohesion in rural areas.

3. Analyse the significance of technological advancements in the dairy sector.

1. Technological advancements improve milk quality through better testing and adulteration detection methods.
2. They enhance operational efficiency in dairy processing, leading to increased production capacity and reduced waste.
3. Advanced technologies facilitate data management, enabling better tracking of milk supply chains and market demands.
4. Innovation in dairy equipment, like bulk milk coolers, supports better storage and handling of milk, preserving its freshness.
5. Technology also aids in training farmers, improving their knowledge and practices in dairy management.

4. Estimate the potential challenges in implementing the Revised National Programme for Dairy Development.

1. Infrastructure development in remote areas may face logistical and geographical challenges, delaying project completion.
2. Resistance from traditional dairy practices could hinder the adoption of modern technologies and cooperative models.
3. Ensuring consistent funding and financial management over the program’s duration may pose challenges.
4. Coordination among various stakeholders, including government bodies and cooperatives, is essential but can be complex.
5. Market fluctuations and changing consumer preferences may impact the sustainability of dairy cooperatives and their profitability.