India yet to tap its dairy potential

India, with the world's largest bovine herd, leads as the top milk producer, but faces challenges in maximizing milk yields, according to a USDA GAIN report. The report highlights two key factors impeding India's milk production potential:

1. Feed and fodder shortages: India is grappling with a significant deficit in green fodder, dry fodder, and concentrate feed ingredients, which is expected to worsen. This deficit, along with intense heat before the monsoon season, further increases milk production costs and inefficiencies.

2. Low genetic potential of cattle: The majority of India's dairy cows are indigenous and non-descript, which results in lower milk yields compared to crossbreds and exotic cattle, which only make up 39% of the total.

Despite these challenges, India's milk production is concentrated in states like Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, and Adhara Pradesh. Milk collection for the national supply is primarily handled by dairy cooperative societies and private milk companies.