Milk Output in the Northeast Increased by 4.9 percent in 2019-20

When compared to 2018-19, milk production in the Northeast rose by 4.9 percent in 2019-20. According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairy, despite increased milk production, per capita milk availability remains significantly below the ICMR recommendation. 

According to a milk demand study conducted by the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) in 2019 through M/s A C Nielson under the National Dairy Plan Phase-I scheme, estimated household consumption in 2019 and projected household demand in 2030 of milk and milk products in the Northeast states are as follows: 

"The projected household demand in 2030 implies marketing potential for dairy products in Northeastern states, particularly in Assam," the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying said in a statement. 

The current demand/consumption of milk and milk products in the Northeastern region is met jointly by local production as well as the country's top dairy cooperatives and private sector dairies. 

In addition to state efforts, the Government of India has adopted the following initiatives to improve the quality and quantity of milk and milk products throughout the country, including the Northeastern region: 

In July 2021, the National Program for Dairy Development scheme was reformed / realigned to focus on improving milk quality by creating/strengthening infrastructure for quality milk testing equipment as well as primary chilling facilities. 

Rashtriya Gokul mission is being carried out in order to enhance the genetics of the bovine population, increase milk output and productivity in bovines, and create and conserve indigenous bovine breeds. 

Parshottam Rupala, Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairy, provided this information in a written reply to the Lok Sabha on Tuesday.