Dynamics of Milk Production in Maharashtra: An Analysis of Spatial and Temporal Variations

The study has evaluated the structural changes in milk production and has identified various factors responsible for imbalances in milk production across different districts and regions in the state of Maharashtra with a view to formulate strategies for increased milk production in the state. Two differing points of view have emerged about the status of dairying in the state of Maharashtra. While the state has shown remarkable progress in terms of overall growth in milk production over the past two decades, there were also wide inter- and intra-regional variations in growth rates during this period. The factors underlying regional imbalances in the growth of milk production have been identified. The higher milk production potential in some of the districts and regions of Maharashtra has been assessed through significant and higher rate of growth associated with higher index of instability of milk production. The ready acceptability of modern technology by the milk producers in rural settings, intensive efforts by the dairy co-operatives in providing balanced cattle feed, veterinary services and the availability of other infrastructure facilities could be considered as the other underlying forces that have transformed the status of dairying in most of the districts and regions of Maharashtra. The paper has concluded that dairy co-operative movement in this state has made a contribution to this substantial growth in milk production.