International Journal of Agriculture Extension and Social Development

author(s)
Shraddha Pandey, Dr. Sanjay Mishra, Dr. Akhil Kumar Jha and Dr. Hari OM Pandey

abstract
The dairy industry in India has witnessed substantial growth, positioning the country as the world's leading milk producer. From 2020 to 2023, India experienced significant advancements in milk production, with 2022-23 output reaching 230.58 million tonnes, indicating a 3.83% increase from the previous year. This surge in milk production has not only exceeded global averages but also led to per capita milk availability of 459 grams/day, well surpassing the global average of approximately 322 grams/day. Such achievements underscore the pivotal role of dairying in socio-economic development, offering employment opportunities, income generation, and nutritional security, particularly in rural areas. With a substantial portion of the population engaged in agriculture and livestock rearing, dairy farming emerges as a vital source of livelihood, especially for small-scale farmers and landless labourers. Furthermore, the involvement of women in dairy farming contributes significantly to inclusive development. This review focuses on the role of recent Indian dairy schemes in driving socio-economic development. It highlights the transformative impact of various government initiatives aimed at bolstering milk production, enhancing dairy infrastructure, and empowering rural communities. Through an examination of key programmes such as Operation Flood, the Rashtriya Gokul Mission, and the National Programme for Dairy Development. It further elucidates how these schemes contribute to job creation, income generation, and poverty alleviation, particularly in rural areas. By leveraging technological advancements, strengthening institutional frameworks, and fostering collaboration among stakeholders, Indian dairy schemes play a pivotal role in promoting inclusive growth and improving the well-being of millions of people across the country.