How is the livestock sector bolstering India's agricultural economy?
Synopsis
The livestock sector in India is witnessing impressive growth, further solidifying its role in the agricultural economy. With significant contributions to the Gross Value Added and leading global rankings in milk and egg production, this sector is crucial for the nation's food security and economic stability.
Key Takeaways
The livestock sector is crucial for India's agricultural economy.
It has achieved a CAGR of 12.77 percent since 2014-15.
Livestock contributes 30.87 percent to the agriculture GVA.
India leads in global milk production with 25 percent share.
Egg and meat production are also on the rise.
New Delhi, Jan 8 (NationPress) The livestock industry is playing a pivotal role in enhancing India's agricultural economy, experiencing a remarkable growth rate of 12.77 percent annually since the fiscal year 2014-15, as per government reports.
The share of livestock in the total agriculture and allied sector's Gross Value Added (GVA) has risen from 24.38 percent in 2014-15 to 30.87 percent in 2023-24 (at current prices).
The livestock sector contributed 5.49 percent of the total GVA in 2023-24 (at current prices), according to the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying.
India holds the top position globally in milk production, accounting for 25 percent of the world's total output. Milk production has been growing at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5.41 percent over the last 11 years, rising from 146.31 million tonnes in 2014-15 to 247.87 million tonnes projected for 2024-25.
The official report indicates that global milk production increased by 1.12 percent in 2024 compared to 2023. In India, the per capita availability of milk stands at 485 grams per day for 2024-25, significantly higher than the global average of 328 grams per day.
According to the Food and Agriculture Organization's Corporate Statistical Database (FAOSTAT) production data (2023), India ranks second in global egg production and fourth in meat production.
Egg production in India surged from 78.48 billion in 2014-15 to 149.11 billion projected for 2024-25, with a CAGR of 6.63 percent over the past 11 years.
The per capita availability of eggs is projected to be 106 eggs per person annually in 2024-25, up from 62 eggs in 2014-15. Additionally, meat production has grown from 6.69 million tonnes in 2014-15 to 10.50 million tonnes expected for 2024-25, with a CAGR of 4.61 percent during this period.
Point of View
It's essential to recognize the livestock sector's crucial contribution to India's economy. Its continuous growth not only strengthens agricultural resilience but also enhances food security, making it a vital component in national development.
NationPress
12 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current growth rate of the livestock sector in India?
The livestock sector is growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.77 percent since 2014-15.
How much does livestock contribute to India's Gross Value Added?
As of 2023-24, livestock contributes 30.87 percent to the Gross Value Added in the agriculture and allied sectors.
Where does India stand in global milk production?
India is the largest producer of milk, contributing 25 percent of the global milk supply.
What is the projected egg production in India for 2024-25?
Egg production in India is projected to reach 149.11 billion by 2024-25.
How has meat production changed over the years in India?
Meat production has increased from 6.69 million tonnes in 2014-15 to an expected 10.50 million tonnes in 2024-25.
