Milk prodn up in state, poor show in 13 dists

Livestock plays a crucial role in strengthening the national economy. Especially in rural areas, many families rely on milk production for their livelihood. India has established itself as the world's largest milk-producing country. According to the recently released data by Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, milk production in the country during the financial year 2023-24 stood at 239.3 million metric tonnes (MMT).

- ARINDAM GANGULY, OP

Odisha ~ nestled on the eastern coast of India and which blends tradition with agriculture-contributed 1.1 per cent to it, placing the state at the 16th position nationally.

While milk production in Odisha had been steadily increasing since 2009-10, recent data reveals a decline in 13 districts during 2023-24 compared ‘to 2022-23. A drop in milk output in 43 per cent of the districts reflects the fragile condition of the rural economy. However, the recently implemented Mukhyamantri Kamdhenu Yojana by the state government is expected to improve the situation.

In 2023-24, Uttar Pradesh had the highest milk production in the country with 38,780 thousand metric tonnes (TMT), whereas Odisha produced 2,636 TMT. These two states contributed 16.21 per cent and 1.1 per cent respectively to the national figure. Following Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan produced 34,733 TMT (14.51 per cent), Madhya Pradesh 21,326 TMT (8.91 per cent), Gujarat 18,312 TMT (7.65 per cent), and Maharashtra 16,045 TMT (6.71 per cent).