National Milk Day: Birth anniversary of Dr. Verghese Kurien, Father of India’s White Revolution

National Milk Day: Birth anniversary of Dr. Verghese Kurien, Father of India’s White Revolution

National Milk Day is observed on 26th November every year to mark the birth anniversary of Dr. Verghese Kurien, regarded as the “Father of the White Revolution” in India. The day honours millions of farmers, whose commitment sustains the country’s leadership in milk production and strengthens its journey towards a resilient, inclusive, and nutritionally secure future.

National Milk Day reflects the evolution of India’s dairy sector from the cooperative foundations laid in Anand to its present position as the world’s leading milk producer. The progress achieved through Operation Flood, the strengthening of dairy cooperatives, and sustained government support has resulted in substantial gains in overall milk production, rising per-capita availability, and improved bovine productivity. Programmes such as the Rashtriya Gokul Mission, the National Artificial Insemination Programme, and the National Programme for Dairy Development have expanded the reach of scientific breeding, improved animal health services, and strengthened dairy infrastructure.

The growing prominence of women-led cooperatives, large-scale producer organisations, and major dairy institutions, such as Amul and Sabar Dairy, underscores the sector’s inclusivity and its increasing economic impact. The reforms under the GST Council, enhanced processing capacity, and the focus of White Revolution 2.0 further reinforce India’s commitment to a stronger and more sustainable dairy system. As the country observes National Milk Day, it acknowledges the farmers and cooperatives whose efforts continue to shape a resilient, productive, and forward-looking dairy economy.