Milk production in Uttarakhand has recorded a steady increase, reaching 1,957.2 thousand tonnes, marking a 3.1% rise compared to 1,897.8 thousand tonnes in the financial year 2024–25.
The figures were shared by Saurabh Bahuguna, the state’s dairy development minister, during a discussion in the state assembly on Friday.
Improving per capita milk availability
According to the minister, the state’s per capita daily milk availability currently stands at 456 grams, gradually approaching the national average of around 485 grams. This improvement reflects consistent growth in dairy production and better supply management within the state.
Bahuguna noted that milk production in Uttarakhand has shown continuous expansion over the past decade. In 2015–16, the state produced approximately 1,656 thousand tonnes of milk, and output has increased steadily since then.
Production and consumption levels remain balanced
The minister informed the House that the state currently produces about 53.6 lakh kilograms of milk per day, while the estimated daily consumption is around 50.3 lakh kilograms.
This relatively balanced supply-demand scenario indicates that Uttarakhand’s dairy sector is gradually strengthening its production capacity while meeting local consumption needs.
At present, the state has around 2,830 milk cooperative societies operating across different districts, supporting milk procurement and rural livelihoods.
Government schemes supporting dairy expansion
The state government has introduced several initiatives aimed at improving milk production and generating employment in the rural dairy sector. Key programmes include:
- Ganga Gay Mahila Dairy Scheme
- Silage and Milch Animal Nutrition Scheme
- Milk Price Incentive Programme
- State Livestock Mission
These schemes focus on improving cattle productivity, promoting fodder management, and strengthening farmer incomes through organised dairy activities.
Growth of the Aanchal dairy brand
Bahuguna also highlighted the growing market presence of the state’s dairy brand, Aanchal. The brand recorded revenue of ₹399.5 crore in 2024–25 from the sale of milk and other dairy products. For the 2025–26 financial year, the state expects business turnover to rise further to around ₹444 crore, reflecting increasing consumer demand and market expansion.
Higher budget allocation for the dairy sector
To support further growth, the state government has allocated ₹93 crore for dairy development in the current financial year. Moreover, the proposed allocation for the next fiscal year is expected to increase to ₹140 crore, signalling stronger policy support for the sector.
Industry observers note that the continued growth in milk production, combined with increased investment and cooperative expansion, could further strengthen Uttarakhand’s position in India’s evolving dairy landscape.
