International Journal of Agriculture Extension and Social Development

author(s)
Dr. Anuj Kumar Gautam, Dr. Rajanish Chandra Mishra, Dr. Vister Joshi and Dr. Sarita Devi

abstract
Dairy farming is a cornerstone of India’s agricultural economy, contributing significantly to rural livelihoods, employment generation, and nutritional security. India has sustained its position as the world’s largest milk producer, with national milk output increasing steadily from 146.31 million tonnes in 2014-15 to about 247.87 million tonnes in 2024-25. Despite this impressive growth, the sector continues to face multiple structural and systemic challenges that limit productivity, profitability, and sustainability, particularly for smallholder farmers who dominate dairy production. This review paper examines the current status and major challenges of dairy farming in India using a systematic review of secondary data sourced from official publications, institutional reports, and peer-reviewed literature published between 2012 and 2024. The analysis highlights key issues related to low per-animal productivity, persistent feed and fodder deficits, animal health and disease outbreaks, milk quality and food safety concerns, and inefficiencies in market structure and price realization. The review further identifies climate change and environmental stress as emerging threats, with heat stress causing milk yield losses of 10-25 percent, reduced feed intake, declining reproductive efficiency, and increased disease incidence. The findings suggest that while India’s dairy sector has achieved production-led growth, its future sustainability depends on a strategic shift towards productivity enhancement, climate resilience, quality assurance, and stronger institutional support. Policy interventions focusing on feed security, animal health services, climate-smart dairy practices, and inclusive value-chain development are essential to ensure long-term viability and improved livelihoods for smallholder dairy farmers.