Every year on November 26, India celebrates National Milk Day to honor the birth anniversary of Dr. Verghese Kurien, the architect of India’s White Revolution. This day is not just about milk—it symbolizes India’s transformation from a milk-deficient nation to the largest milk producer in the world.
For me, National Milk Day is more than a tribute—it’s a cherished memory. I was born in Anand, Gujarat, the epicenter of the milk revolution. Anand is not just my birthplace; it is where my early years on the lush green campus of the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) shaped my sense of purpose, responsibility, and passion for excellence.
My father, Late Animesh Banerjee, retired as Executive Director at NDDB and had the privilege of working closely with Dr. Kurien as part of his dream team. As a child, I had the rare opportunity to interact with Dr. Kurien and witness his unwavering commitment to empowering farmers and building a self-reliant India. His vision was not just about milk—it was about dignity, opportunity, and transformation. Those playful yet impactful interactions left an indelible mark on my young mind.
Celebrating National Milk Day, for me, is about recognizing the power of purpose-driven leadership—leadership that inspires, energizes, and instills confidence. It is about leaders who make us believe “Yes, we can.”
Today, India produces over 220 million metric tons of milk annually, making it the largest milk producer globally. The dairy sector supports 80 million rural households, serving as a cornerstone of rural livelihood.
Milk in India is more than a beverage—it’s a cultural symbol. From the morning chai, which was fondly called “Doodh mein patti” ( Few tea leaves in milk) in my college canteen to festive sweets like rasgulla, rasmalai, and kheer made from fresh chenna, milk is woven into the fabric of Indian life. No celebration feels complete without it.
For generations, milk has been a mother’s go-to for child nutrition. I’ve met countless Indian mothers who worry, “Mera bachcha doodh nahi peeta” (My child doesn’t drink milk). This concern gave rise to fortified options like Horlicks and Bournvita, making milk more appealing to children.
Today, urban households have expanded their dairy repertoire—cheese, paneer, yogurt enriched with protein, probiotics, and micronutrients. Milk remains both a source of nutrition and indulgence, whether in thick milkshakes, ice creams, or traditional sweets. Truly, India loves its milk!
Despite our progress, challenges persist, and it is our responsibility to solve for them:
- Environmental impact of dairy farming—methane emissions, water usage, and land degradation.
- Adulteration leading to unsafe milk quality.
- Addressing nutrition gaps, especially among lower-income groups.
Being born into a “milk family” and witnessing India’s milk revolution first hand, my dream for India’s dairy future is simple yet profound: Every Indian child should have access to safe, nutritious milk, and our dairy products should proudly stand on supermarket shelves across the globe.
As a closing thought on this National Milk Day, let’s honor Dr. Kurien’s vision by committing to quality, sustainability, and access to nutrition. Because milk is not just food—it’s a symbol of empowerment and progress.