The Animal Husbandry Department Jammu today celebrated World Milk Day 2025 with enthusiasm, highlighting the essential role of milk in nutrition, economic development, and sustainable livelihoods. The simple yet impactful event witnessed a significant turnout of dairy farmers, industry stakeholders, and enthusiastic citizens.
Dr. Parvinder Singh Sudan, Director of the Animal Husbandry Department, Jammu & Kashmir, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. In his keynote address, Dr. Sudan emphasized this year’s theme, “Let’s Celebrate the Power of Dairy,” underscoring the multifaceted contributions of milk to human health, agricultural prosperity, and the overall well-being of society.
“Milk is not just a food item; it is a powerhouse of nutrition, a backbone for countless farming families, and a crucial driver of our rural economy,” Dr. Sudan stated. “On this World Milk Day, we reaffirm our commitment to supporting our dairy farmers, promoting sustainable dairy practices, and ensuring access to quality milk for all.”
Dr. Sudan also highlighted a significant step toward dairy advancement in the Union Territory—the procurement of Sex Sorted Semen from High Pedigree Bulls from the United States during the current financial year. This initiative is expected to enhance productivity and breed quality in the region's dairy sector.
The celebration featured various awareness activities, including informative sessions by veterinary experts on modern dairy farming techniques, animal health, and hygienic milk production. These sessions aimed to educate and empower farmers with knowledge about scientific practices in dairy farming.
A major highlight of the event was the felicitation of progressive dairy farmers from across the Jammu region. These farmers were recognized for their exceptional contributions to dairy development, adoption of innovative practices, and efforts in improving milk production and quality. Their dedication serves as a beacon for others considering dairy farming as a profitable and sustainable venture.
World Milk Day, an initiative of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, is observed globally on June 1 each year. It aims to promote milk as a vital global food, highlight its nutritional benefits, and support the dairy industry. With over six billion people worldwide consuming milk and the dairy sector supporting more than one billion livelihoods, its significance in the global economy is undeniable.
Jammu & Kashmir has witnessed remarkable growth in the dairy sector. The per capita milk availability has risen from 56 grams in 2000 to 600 grams in 2024, surpassing both the national average and ICMR recommendations. Under HADP and other dairy-related schemes, the dairy sector in J&K is projected to grow at an impressive 7.5% per annum.