Jammu & Kashmir’s Dairy Revolution: Aiming for a 70% Increase in Milk Production
Dairy farming has long been a vital part of Jammu & Kashmir’s agricultural economy, providing both livelihood and nutritional security to thousands of families. However, challenges such as low per-animal productivity, fodder shortages, and inadequate processing infrastructure have prevented the sector from reaching its full potential. Recognizing this, the J&K administration has launched a major initiative to increase milk production by 70% in just five years.
Currently, Jammu & Kashmir produces 26 lakh metric tons of milk annually. The goal is to increase this to 44 lakh metric tons by 2027 and eventually to 98 lakh metric tons by 2047. This ambitious target will be achieved through improved breeding programs, productivity enhancements, and infrastructure expansion.
Expanding Breeding Programs and Genetic Improvement
One of the major interventions of the project is increasing per-animal milk yield from 2,400 liters to 4,300 liters. This will be made possible by expanding artificial insemination coverage from 1,389 to 2,189 centers, with the involvement of 800 private AI workers.
A Murrah buffalo breeding farm will be established, and semen production will be doubled to generate 1.9 million doses annually. The introduction of 400 satellite heifer rearing units will further improve cattle genetics and contribute to higher milk yields.
Strengthening Milk Processing and Market Linkages
Higher milk production requires better processing and storage facilities to ensure that farmers get fair prices and consumers receive high-quality dairy products.
Milk chilling and processing capacity will be expanded through the installation of 500 Automatic Milk Collection Units and 50 Bulk Milk Coolers at the village level. An additional 110 lakh liters of milk will be processed annually by Self-Help Groups, promoting village-level dairy enterprises.
The project will also focus on value-added dairy products such as ghee, butter, and cheese, ensuring that farmers receive higher returns.
Adopting the Denmark Model for Dairy Development
To increase productivity, the government is adopting best practices from Denmark, a country known for its efficient dairy industry. In Denmark, an average cow produces 9,000 liters of milk per year. By integrating advanced breeding techniques, improved fodder management, and efficient dairy processing, Jammu & Kashmir aims to achieve similar success.
Addressing the Fodder Deficit
A significant challenge in dairy farming is the shortage of quality fodder. Currently, J&K faces a 41% fodder deficit, but this will be reduced to just 8% through dedicated interventions. Increased fodder cultivation, promotion of high-yield varieties, and better feed management techniques will ensure optimal nutrition for dairy cattle.
Economic and Social Impact of the Dairy Revolution
This initiative is expected to significantly enhance farmer incomes, boost employment in AI services and dairy processing, and strengthen J&K’s position as a leading milk-producing region. The project will help stabilize milk prices, reduce dependence on imports, and create a sustainable, self-sufficient dairy sector.
By focusing on breeding, processing, value addition, and market linkages, Jammu & Kashmir’s dairy sector is set to transform into a profitable and sustainable industry.
