Assam targets 10 lakh litres of daily milk production to boost dairy sector

Guwahati, July 2 (IANS) Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Thursday reiterated the state government’s commitment to strengthening the dairy sector, saying the administration aims to increase milk production to 10 lakh litres per day while improving the livelihoods of thousands of rural families.

Sharing the government’s vision through a post on X, Sarma said the dairy sector plays a crucial role in supporting rural incomes and household nutrition.

“Every glass of milk nourishes a family and strengthens the rural economy,” the Chief Minister said.

He added that the government is providing subsidies to more than 25,000 dairy farmers to enhance productivity, improve rural incomes and strengthen Assam’s dairy ecosystem.

“Our mission is to produce 10 lakh litres of milk every day,” Sarma said.

The state government has been implementing several initiatives to improve milk production through financial assistance, better livestock management, scientific breeding practices and enhanced veterinary support.

Officials believe higher productivity will reduce dependence on milk imports from other states while increasing income opportunities for rural households.

The dairy sector has emerged as an important component of Assam’s rural economy, particularly for small and marginal farmers who supplement agricultural income through livestock rearing.

Government support has focused on improving fodder availability, strengthening milk collection infrastructure and encouraging organised dairy farming.

A senior government official said that increased milk production will not only improve nutritional security but also generate employment across the dairy value chain, including processing, transportation and marketing.

The Assam government’s subsidy programme seeks to help farmers adopt improved dairy practices, purchase quality cattle and modernise farm operations.

Authorities expect these interventions to raise productivity and ensure sustainable income generation in rural areas. The target of producing 10 lakh litres of milk daily forms part of Assam’s broader efforts to achieve self-sufficiency in dairy production while expanding the state’s agri-allied economy.

The state government has repeatedly stressed that agriculture and allied sectors remain central to Assam’s development strategy, with dairy, fisheries and animal husbandry identified as key drivers of rural prosperity and employment generation.

Officials expressed confidence that continued policy support and farmer participation will help the state move closer to achieving its ambitious dairy production target.

–IANS

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