Lucknow: Uttar Pradesh has emerged as the country’s leading milk-producing state, recording a nearly 40% increase in milk output during the tenure of Yogi Adityanath. The state now contributes 16% of India’s total milk production, the highest share among all states.
According to official figures, milk production in Uttar Pradesh increased from 277 lakh metric tonnes in 2016-17 to over 388 lakh metric tonnes in 2024-25, placing the state ahead of major dairy producers such as Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat and Maharashtra.
Among India’s top five milk-producing states, which together account for 54% of national output, Uttar Pradesh alone contributes 16%.
Milk Output Rises by Over 111 Lakh Metric Tonnes
Officials said the sharp rise reflects sustained policy support and expansion of dairy infrastructure.
Mukesh Meshram, Additional Chief Secretary of the Animal Husbandry Department, stated that the increase is the result of planned development and grassroots implementation under the state government.
He said the growth demonstrates strong rural participation and systematic strengthening of dairy supply chains.
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Rural Women Driving Dairy Expansion
A major factor behind the increase has been the role of rural women linked through the Uttar Pradesh State Rural Livelihood Mission.
In 31 districts, women’s groups are collectively procuring nearly 10 lakh litres of milk daily.
Officials said these dairy activities have generated business worth nearly ₹5,000 crore.
4 Lakh Women Farmers Connected Through Five Dairy Companies
Around 4 lakh women farmers have been linked to five major milk producer companies operating across different regions of the state.
These include:
- Balini Milk Producer Company Limited
- Kashi Milk Producer Company Limited
- Samarthya Milk Producer Company Limited
- Shri Baba Gorakhnath Kripa Milk Producer Company Limited
- Srijan Milk Producer Company Limited
By February 2026, their combined turnover reached approximately ₹5,000 crore.
Dairy Growth Linked to Women’s Economic Empowerment
Officials said dairy participation has significantly expanded women’s role in rural income generation.
According to Mukesh Meshram, women have entered the economic mainstream at an unprecedented scale during the current government’s tenure.
He said the rise in milk production reflects not only economic progress but also a broader transformation in rural livelihoods across Uttar Pradesh.
