India’s Dairy Strength
- India produces nearly 25% of the world’s milk (largest producer globally)
- Livestock sector growing at ~7% (Economic Survey 2025-26)
- Cooperative structure (Amul Model) via Operation Flood; NDDB institutional support
- Farmer-owned, professionally managed; households with 1-2 animals can participate
- 68% of dairy labour performed by women
- Aligns with SDGs 2, 12, 13, 15
Western Industrial Model Critique
- Heavy mechanisation, high external inputs, routine antibiotics (causing AMR)
- EU and US state subsidies distort global trade
- High carbon footprint
- India’s silvo-agro-pastoral model operates on low external inputs, circular nutrient economies, and massive rural women empowerment — a superior model of sustainable, inclusive growth
UPSC Angle
- GS3: Agriculture, food security, trade
- GS1: Society, women’s economic empowerment
📌 Facts Corner — Knowledgepedia
India’s Dairy Sector:
- Global share: 25% (largest producer)
- Growth rate: ~7% (Economic Survey 2025-26)
- Women’s share in dairy labour: 68%
- Model: Operation Flood / Amul cooperative
- SDG alignment: 2, 12, 13, 15