Banas Dairy, led by Gujarat Assembly Speaker Shankar Chaudhary, is facilitating over Rs 40 crore daily payments directly into the accounts of female milk producers. This initiative, highlighted on World Milk Day, showcases a cooperative model benefiting livestock rearers through various avenues like milk production, livestock credit, bioenergy, and organic farming.
Chaudhary emphasized India’s trajectory towards becoming a global dairy leader, leveraging its vast cattle population, native breeds, and cooperative initiatives. He lauded Banas Dairy, recognized as India’s largest milk producer, for its pivotal role in supporting livestock rearers and farmers.
Women involved in dairy farming expressed how it has become a crucial source of livelihood, with direct payments and government schemes easing financial uncertainties. Nayanaben Chaudhary, a livestock rearer, praised the Kisan Credit Card scheme for simplifying access to loans, enabling dairy farmers to expand their activities.
Livestock insurance schemes have also played a significant role in safeguarding against losses from diseases and natural disasters, enhancing the security of livestock rearing businesses. Chaudhary credited the government’s focus on cooperatives and innovation, particularly acknowledging the establishment of a separate Ministry of Cooperation and heightened attention to dairy development.
Indigenous cow and buffalo breeds were highlighted for their advantages, including superior heat tolerance, lower fodder needs, reduced disease susceptibility, and decreased methane emissions. Chaudhary underscored the importance of breed enhancement programs like the Gokul Mission in bolstering indigenous cattle populations.
Efforts to diversify beyond traditional dairy products were also noted, with a growing emphasis on products like cheese, butter, paneer, probiotics, ice cream, Indian sweets, and whey protein. Banas Dairy’s initiatives in converting cow dung to Bio-CNG for fuel, alongside the production of organic fertilizers, were commended for their economic and environmental benefits.
Research findings on the commercial potential of cow urine-based products were mentioned, hinting at new product launches. Chaudhary expressed optimism about a future focused on cow-based agriculture and economy, emphasizing the significance of milk and its products in human nutrition.
