Sustainable Dairy Development in India for National Food and Nutritional Security

摘要

India ranks first in milk production and Indian dairy is a classic example of production by masses rather than mass production. Dairying is acknowledged as the major instrument in bringing about socio-economic transformation of rural poor in our country. Dairy industry provides newer avenues for employment, both direct and indirect, and improves the nutritional standards of people. Dairy cattle/buffaloes have an immense contribution for sustainable rural development. Unlike crop, which is seasonal, dairying provides a stable, year-round income, which is an important economic incentive for the small farmer. Milk plays a major role in reducing poverty and is a source of nutritious food in rural and urban population. For the small-scale producer milk is a key element for household income and food security and is a regular source of income for rural families and their survival. Till date, smallholder dairying is the backbone of the Indian dairying and contributes to more than 80 percent of the total milk produced in the country. About 72.5% of