SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir have seen a significant rise in milk production and collection over the past five years, thanks to the increasing entrepreneurship in this sector
According to official data available with the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), milk production in the Union Territory has surged from 25 lakh metric tons to an impressive 45 lakh metric tons during this period. This growth marks a significant achievement in meeting local demand and enhancing the region’s agricultural productivity.
In addition to the production increase, the daily milk collection and chilling capacity have also seen a notable jump. The collection has risen from 2 lakh litres per day (LLPD) to 8.5 lakh LLPD. This significant improvement in milk processing capabilities reflects better infrastructure, modernization of dairy farming practices, and efficient cold chain management in Jammu and Kashmir.
As per the officials, dairy farmers and cooperatives have benefited from government initiatives aimed at improving livestock quality, providing financial assistance, and encouraging the adoption of modern technology in farming.
These efforts, they said, have played a crucial role in boosting milk output and ensuring that more dairy products reach local markets and consumers.
In addition to the government intervention, the growth of entrepreneurship in this sector has led to the booming of this business.
The dairy farming industry is now undergoing a renaissance as more educated young people view it as a viable and rewarding career option.
In the Kashmir Valley, the dairy sector has experienced substantial growth over the past two decades, underscoring the region’s focus on agricultural progress and the pursuit of self-reliance.
Adil Ahmad is one such example of growing investment in this sector. Three years before he bought three cows to support his family.
Ahmad, who now owns five cows, sells 100 litres of milk daily which fetches him a good sum to grow his business.
“I am now planning to buy three more cows this winter. I will buy hybrid cows which give milk in good quantity so that my business grows further,” he said.
Pertinently, the Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) government has launched the Holistic Agriculture Development Program (HADP), a comprehensive initiative aimed at addressing the challenges faced by these sectors and fostering their growth.
At the core of the HADP is a visionary plan for dairy development in Jammu and Kashmir over the next five years. This initiative includes a strategic focus on boosting milk productivity through the broader adoption of Artificial Insemination (AI), with an emphasis on engaging private AI workers to ensure widespread implementation