India remains the world’s largest milk producer — but the true story isn’t just about volume. It’s about how the dairy sector has become one of the country’s most powerful engines of social transformation, especially for rural women.
At the 2025 IDF World Dairy Summit in Santiago, Chile, Meenesh Shah, Chairman & Managing Director of the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), spotlighted India’s remarkable progress in empowering women through dairy cooperatives.
The Backbone of India’s Dairy Strength
India’s dairy ecosystem is built on a vast network of over 230,000 village-level cooperatives supporting more than 18 million families. About 35% of these members are women, and the goal is to raise this to 50% — a change already well underway.
Unlike industrialized dairy systems, India’s model thrives on smallholders:
- 92% of dairy farms own 1–4 animals
- The sector supports 80 million rural households
- Cooperatives collect 68 million liters of milk daily, of which 24 million liters come directly from women producers
This structure not only secures livelihoods but also builds resilience in rural communities.
Read More: Economist Warns: Milk Oversupply Now Squeezing Dairy Farmers
Catalysts of Empowerment
Women’s participation is accelerating thanks to digital access, transparent payment systems, and targeted inclusion policies. With bank accounts becoming universal, women now receive payments directly — a simple but revolutionary shift.
This has triggered tangible improvements:
- Greater control over household spending
- Investments in children’s education and healthcare
- Higher self-confidence and community recognition
- Stronger decision-making roles in homes that were previously male-dominated
As Shah noted, “When money is placed in the hands of women, it is spent wisely — on education, nutrition, health, and the family’s future.”
Transformational Outcomes
The data speaks volumes:
- Women perform 60–95% of dairy-related tasks
- Women contribute to 50% of household decision-making
- One-third of women in cooperatives report significant economic and social empowerment
NDDB’s efforts have resulted in:
- 23 Producer Organizations formed
- 16 fully women-led POs
- Strong daily milk collection and impressive annual earnings
- 154 women directors now participating in cooperative governance
These results demonstrate not just participation, but leadership.
Stories That Inspire Change
One shining example is Sri Devi, Chairperson of the Srija Producer Organization. Her journey from a village milk producer to a respected leader mirrors the aspirations of thousands of rural women. Her daughter’s current higher education in the U.S. embodies the intergenerational impact of empowerment.
The global dairy community has taken notice. Initiatives supporting Indian women dairy farmers have already earned international recognition, including the IDF Innovation Award.
Shaping the Future of India’s Dairy Landscape
Women are no longer silent contributors — they are becoming the architects of India’s dairy success. Their work is transforming local economies, reshaping social norms, and strengthening India’s position in global dairy leadership.
The story of women in India’s dairy cooperatives is ultimately a story of dignity, opportunity, and progress. As their role continues to grow, the Indian dairy sector stands not only as a global production powerhouse but as a model of inclusive and sustainable development.
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Disclaimer
I do my best to share reliable and well-researched market insights but occasional errors or omissions may slip through. Please view all content as informational, not financial advice.
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