Gujarat’s dairy sector, managed by the Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation (GCMMF), continues to achieve remarkable milestones. With a network comprising over 3.6 million farmer-members across 18,164 village cooperatives, the sector processes an impressive 215 million litres of milk daily, solidifying its leadership in India’s dairy industry.
In the fiscal year 2023-24, Gujarat’s dairy sector recorded a turnover of ₹80,000 crore, showcasing the success and efficiency of its cooperative model. The state’s milk production growth, at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 4.96%, surpasses the national average of 4.57%, further cementing its dominance in India’s dairy landscape.
Chairman Highlights Cooperative Model’s Success
Shankar Chaudhary, Chairman of Banas Dairy, attributed this success to the cooperative model promoted under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership.
“After 2014, when Modi ji became Prime Minister, a separate ministry for cooperatives was established, with Amit Shah leading it. The cooperative model, exemplified by Amul, has become a benchmark for the country and the world. Today, 35 lakh dairy farming families generate ₹80,000 crore in turnover through this transparent and technology-driven system,” he said.
Chaudhary also credited the institutionalization of transparency and efficiency through laws for enabling direct financial benefits to farmers.
Historical Legacy of Gujarat’s Cooperative Model
The roots of Gujarat’s dairy success trace back to 1942 when the cooperative movement began. The sector received a significant boost under Narendra Modi’s tenure as Chief Minister from 2001, through infrastructure improvements, technological advancements, and the promotion of the Amul brand.
This model empowered small-scale farmers, especially those without land, to thrive in the dairy sector. These farmers contribute milk to local cooperatives, ensuring transparency and fair pricing, while benefiting from union-promoted schemes such as chilling unit installations and housing support.
Farmers from Ruppura village shared their experiences, highlighting how dairy farming has transformed livelihoods in rural areas.
Faljibhai Patel, a dairy farmer, said, “Even without industries in our district, the milk business has become a major source of income alongside farming. It supports our households, education, and access to government schemes.”
Similarly, Jayeshbhai Limbachiya emphasized the cooperative model’s impact: “Our village dairy, supported by Banas Dairy, ensures good profits and livelihood for everyone. Even those without land are earning well and sustaining their families through dairy farming.”
Gujarat’s pioneering efforts in cooperative dairying played a critical role in India’s White Revolution, leading to the establishment of Amul. Today, the state stands as a role model in milk production, combining innovative practices, cooperative efficiency, and technological advancements to contribute significantly to India’s and the global dairy supply.
The state’s consistent efforts have elevated it to the forefront of India’s dairy sector, showcasing the transformative power of collective effort and innovative governance.
