Jammu and Kashmir now aim to achieve an even more ambitious target of 3,400 thousand MT by 2024-25, according to Economic Survey Report 2023-24.
Srinagar, Mar 21: In a significant boost to the dairy sector, Jammu and Kashmir has recorded a remarkable increase in milk production, reaching 2,993 thousand metric tonnes (MT) in 2023-24, up from 2,503 thousand MT in the previous year. This substantial 19.6% growth represents one of the most significant year-over-year increases in J&K’s dairy sector.
Jammu and Kashmir now aim to achieve an even more ambitious target of 3,400 thousand MT by 2024-25, according to Economic Survey Report 2023-24.
“We’ve witnessed unprecedented growth in our dairy sector over the past year, transforming it from a traditional livelihood activity to a vibrant commercial enterprise,” said an official of the Animal Husbandry Department. “The numbers speak for themselves – a nearly 20% jump in production doesn’t happen by chance.”
The impressive growth comes as a result of focused government initiatives to enhance dairy development in the region. Current production levels translate to approximately 70 lakh litres of milk daily, with Kashmir producing 40 lakh litres and Jammu contributing 30 lakh litres.
One of the most encouraging developments has been the influx of young, educated entrepreneurs into the dairy farming sector. Dairy farming, once considered a traditional occupation, is now attracting a new generation of business-minded individuals.
“I left my IT job in Bangalore to start this dairy farm in my hometown,” said Bilal Ahmad, 29, who now runs a dairy farm in Ganderbal district. “With government support and modern technology, the returns are competitive with corporate salaries. Plus, I’m creating jobs for others in my community.”
Officials report that nearly 40% of the new dairy units established in the past year are owned by entrepreneurs under 35 years of age, many of whom hold degrees in business, agriculture, or veterinary sciences.
The dramatic increase follows years of more modest growth. Between 2018-19 and 2022-23, milk production rose by just 1.7%, from 2,460 thousand MT to 2,503 thousand MT. However, targeted interventions have now accelerated production at a much faster pace.
The government has implemented several key initiatives driving this growth, including expansion of artificial insemination coverage from 30% to 70%, scaling up semen production capacity from 9 lakh to 19.5 lakh straws, and establishment of 2,722 new dairy units, creating employment for approximately 5,000 people. Additional efforts include importing high-genetic-merit breeding bulls, implementing advanced breeding technologies, providing specialized training programs for new entrepreneurs, and offering low-interest loans and subsidies for dairy equipment and infrastructure.
“In view of the economic importance of the dairy sector, the UT administration as well as the central government has given due consideration to the sector as a focus sector for doubling farmers’ income, attracting investment and creating avenues for employment generation,” stated an official document.
Faisal Ahmed, a 27-year-old dairy entrepreneur from Kupwara, emphasised the changing perception of dairy farming: “My friends were skeptical when I started. Now several of them are asking for advice on starting their own units. The government support system is robust, from training to marketing assistance.”
The dairy sector is now positioned as a critical component in the territory’s economic development strategy, with continued investment expected to further boost production and create additional employment opportunities in the coming years.
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