Can Odisha Double Its Milk Production in Five Years?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Odisha aims to double milk production in five years.
- Financial assistance for 3 lakh beneficiaries in 2024-25.
- Mukhyamantri Kamadhenu Yojana supports cow husbandry.
- Milk producers to receive Rs 3 more per litre.
- Accidental death assistance of Rs 1 lakh for milk producers.
Bhubaneswar, June 1 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Odisha, Mohan Charan Majhi, announced on Sunday that the state government is dedicated to doubling the milk production in Odisha over the next five years.
During a gathering for the state-wide celebration of World Milk Day 2025, CM Majhi highlighted that milk production is crucial for the rural economy.
"It not only generates income but also significantly contributes to providing nutritious food within our community. In the fiscal year 2023-24, our state produced 26.4 lakh metric tonnes of milk, and our goal is to double this in five years. To achieve this, we have initiated the 'Mukhyamantri Kamadhenu Yojana' aimed at enhancing cow husbandry and increasing milk production," stated CM Majhi.
He also mentioned that in the last financial year of 2024-25, 3 lakh beneficiaries had received financial support totaling Rs. 71 crore.
CM Majhi further expressed his ambition to position Odisha among the leading milk-producing states in India.
The Chief Minister called upon everyone to work towards realizing the slogan of 'Milk-rich Odisha, healthy Odisha'.
Additionally, he reassured his commitment to animal welfare, stating that the state government is providing financial aid to registered 'goshalas' (cowsheds) through the Mukhyamantri Prani Kalyan Yojana, which has a budget of Rs 186 crore for the support of stray and needy cattle.
In a significant update, CM Majhi announced that the government will now offer Rs 3 more per litre to milk producers linked with the Odisha State Cooperative Milk Producers' Federation Limited (OMFED), benefiting 2.5 lakh milk farmers across the state.
Moreover, he confirmed that the state government will subsidize Rs 2 of the Rs 4 increase in milk prices for consumers.
He also pledged an accidental death assistance of Rs 1 lakh for milk producers.
Since 2001, World Milk Day has been celebrated annually on June 1 to raise awareness about the contributions of livestock keepers to nutritional development and economic growth, as well as the benefits of milk in a balanced diet.