A new report released by animal advocacy group Voice of Vegans has examined the interconnected nature of India’s dairy, meat, and leather sectors, arguing that dairy production is closely linked to broader livestock industries through breeding, milk production, and end-of-life animal management practices.
Titled “The Indian Dairy Truth Report,” the study was published in February by a research team led by activist Shivam Nandi. The report draws on publicly available government data, industry statistics, policy documents, and documented farming practices to analyse the lifecycle of dairy animals in India.
Examining the Concept of ‘Ahimsa Milk’
A key focus of the report is the concept of “Ahimsa milk,” a term used by some groups to describe milk produced without harming animals through practices such as forced breeding, calf separation, abandonment, or slaughter.
The report argues that modern commercial dairy production generally relies on reproductive management practices to maintain milk production. Since dairy animals produce milk after calving, breeding remains an essential component of dairy farming systems worldwide.
According to the report, calves are often separated from their mothers at varying stages depending on farm management systems, while unproductive animals may eventually be sold, transferred, or otherwise removed from dairy operations.
Dairy and Meat Industries: An Interconnected Value Chain
The report highlights the economic relationship between dairy farming and India’s livestock processing sectors, including meat and leather production.
It notes that buffaloes, crossbred cattle, and mithuns account for a significant share of India’s bovine population and contribute substantially to national milk production. The report further states that slaughter regulations differ across Indian states and among different bovine species, creating a complex regulatory environment.
Industry experts have long acknowledged that dairy and livestock sectors are interconnected through animal breeding, calf management, livestock trade, meat production, and by-product utilization, although opinions differ regarding the ethical implications of these practices.
Growing Debate on Sustainable and Ethical Dairy Production
The publication has reignited discussions about animal welfare standards, dairy sustainability, and livestock management practices in India.
Supporters of the report argue that greater transparency is needed regarding dairy production systems and the lifecycle management of animals. They advocate for stronger welfare standards and increased consumer awareness.
Read More: Andhra Pradesh Promotes Animal-Centric Breeding Programme to Enhance Dairy Farmers’ Income
Meanwhile, dairy industry stakeholders emphasize the sector’s critical role in supporting the livelihoods of millions of smallholder farmers. India remains the world’s largest milk producer, with the dairy sector providing regular income to rural households and contributing significantly to agricultural GDP.
Documentary and Public Discourse
The report echoes themes explored in the documentary film Maa Ka Doodh, directed by activist and former physician Harsha Atmakuri, which examined the relationship between India’s dairy and meat industries.
The film argued that dairy and beef production are economically interconnected, a viewpoint that continues to generate debate among policymakers, industry representatives, animal welfare advocates, and consumers.
Industry at a Crossroads
As consumer interest in animal welfare, sustainability, and ethical sourcing continues to grow, discussions surrounding livestock management practices are expected to become increasingly prominent within India’s dairy sector.
The debate highlights the challenge of balancing animal welfare concerns, farmer livelihoods, food security, and economic development in one of the world’s largest dairy-producing nations.
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