Ahmedabad, June 1: On World Milk Day, excitement was palpable among the dairy farmers of Banas Dairy. As one of the largest dairy cooperative organizations in India, Banas Dairy plays a pivotal role in empowering farmers and livestock owners. The cooperative is actively realizing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a self-reliant India.
Located in Banaskantha, Banas Dairy has become a significant hub for milk production, not just in Gujarat but across the nation. Farmers here are doubling their incomes through milk sales. Additionally, the use of biogas from cow dung and organic fertilizers is reducing reliance on chemical fertilizers. Farmers are also earning extra income through organic farming.
Nayanaben Chaudhary, a female livestock owner, shared her experience, stating, “The government has provided farmers with access to credit cards. Previously, we had to take loans at high-interest rates to buy new animals or feed. Now, loans are easily accessible. Payments for milk, which used to take weeks, now come directly into our accounts via bank transfers. We also receive bonuses from Banas Dairy. Under the livestock insurance scheme, compensation is provided promptly in case of any loss.”
Shankar Chaudhary, Chairman of Banas Dairy, extended his greetings on World Milk Day, stating, “India is set to become the largest dairy nation in the world. We have the highest number of cows and buffaloes globally. The central government’s focus on the dairy sector is propelling this industry forward, with significant opportunities on the horizon.”
He further mentioned, “Banas Dairy deposits over 400 million rupees daily into the bank accounts of dairy-producing women and farmers. This is a result of the positive policies from both state and central governments and the right approach to cooperation.”
Chaudhary expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah for their concrete steps to advance the dairy industry. He emphasized that through Banas Dairy, farmers are not only receiving fair prices for milk but also benefiting from modern livestock training, access to improved breeds, better feed management, and marketing facilities. This has strengthened the economic status of rural women, with many self-help groups engaging in dairy to sustain their livelihoods.
On June 1, the dairy farmers of Banas Dairy expressed their gratitude and committed to fulfilling the Prime Minister’s vision. Banas Dairy has now become a symbol of not just milk production but also holistic development based on livestock farming.
Milk production in the country continues to rise, with Banas Dairy playing a leading role. Thanks to government initiatives, farmer credit cards, livestock insurance, and direct benefit transfers, farmers are rapidly advancing on the path to self-reliance.
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