National Milk Day
National Milk Day is observed annually on November 26 is dedicated to embrace the significance of milk in our lives.
This day helps us acknowledge the contributions of Dr. Verghese Kurien who is known as the Father of the White Revolution in India.
It also represents the nutritional value of milk, including its rich sources of protein, calcium, and vitamins that are important for overall human health.
National Milk Day serves to spread awareness about these benefits while reinforcing the importance of the dairy industry, which contributes approximately 5.3% to India's GDP.
Origin of National Milk Day
National Milk Day was put into effect on November 26, 2014, in honor of Dr. Verghese Kurien's birthday by the Ministry of Animal Husbandry and Dairying.
His astonishing work, especially through Operation Food, revolutionized the dairy landscape in India, completely turning it into the largest global milk producer.
The first National Milk Day celebration marked the centenary of Dr. Kurien's birth in 2021, reflecting the lasting impact of his initiatives.
The White Revolution In India
The White Revolution, or Operation Flood, launched on January 13, 1970, was a groundbreaking initiative by India's National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) that transformed India from a milk-deficient country to the world's largest milk producer, surpassing the U.S. in 1998. The program aimed to empower farmers, increase milk production, and ensure fair prices for consumers. It established a national milk grid linking producers to over 700 towns, minimizing price fluctuations and maximizing farmers' profits.
Dr. Verghese Kurien, the founder of Amul, played a key role in the revolution's success, particularly through the Anand Pattern Experiment, which involved creating skim milk powder from buffalo milk. Operation Flood was implemented in three phases:
- Phase I (1970–1980) focused on improving the organized dairy sector in major cities and increasing producers' market share, funded by the sale of skimmed milk powder and butter oil donated by the European Economic Community (EEC).
- Phase II (1981–1985) expanded from 18 to 136 milk sheds, covering 43,000 village co-operatives and 4.25 million producers, boosting domestic milk powder production significantly.
- Phase III (1985–1996) further strengthened dairy co-operatives, adding 30,000 new co-operatives and enhancing veterinary care and education for members, while also emphasizing research and development in animal health.
Overall, the White Revolution significantly improved rural incomes and established dairy farming as a major employment generator in India.
Observing National Milk Day
You can observe National Milk Day by hosting a milk tasting party and trying out all the different types of milk paired with snacks.
You can also set up a smoothie or milkshake bar for guests to come up with their own milk creations.
Try cooking different milk based recipes, or a potluck where everyone could bring their own creations.
Explore a local dairy farm or cooperative to discover the intricate process of milk production and the dedication of dairy farmers. This firsthand experience will deepen your appreciation for the journey that milk takes from farm to table.
