Status, Growth, Problem and Prospects of Milk Industry in India

Animal husbandry along with agriculture has been and will continue to be the lifeline of Indian economy. India is the largest and one of the most economical milk producers in the world (estimated production of 130 MT). It is the most important sector of the Indian economy particularly in poverty alleviation and employment generation. This sector contributes close to one-fourth of India's National income and total work force engaged in agriculture is about 60 per cent. The article focuses on present status of milk/dairy industry, its growth rate (includes of growth rate of milk products), problems faced by industry and prospects for development.