Ahmedabad: Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked the Golden Jubilee celebration of the Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation (GCMMF) at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Motera, Ahmedabad today. The Prime Minister explored the exhibition presented on the occasion, unveiling the Golden Jubilee Coffee Table Book. GCMMF stands as a testament to the resilience of cooperatives, the entrepreneurial spirit, and the unwavering determination of farmers, making Amul one of the world’s leading dairy brands.
In his address to the gathering, the Prime Minister extended his congratulations on the Golden Jubilee celebration, emphasizing how a sapling planted 50 years ago by the farmers of Gujarat has grown into a giant tree with branches worldwide. He acknowledged the significant role of ‘Pashu Dhan’ (livestock) in the white revolution.
Amidst the myriad of brands emerging in India post-independence, the Prime Minister emphasized the uniqueness of Amul. “Amul has become the symbol of the strength of the Pashupalaks of India,” he stated. “Amul embodies trust, development, public participation, farmer empowerment, and technological advancements over time,” he added. Prime Minister Modi declared that Amul is the inspiration for Atmanirbhar Bharat, exporting products to over 50 countries globally.
Highlighting Amul’s achievements, including more than 18,000 milk cooperative committees, a network of 36,000 farmers, processing over 3.5 crore liters of milk daily, and online payments exceeding Rs 200 crores to livestock breeders, the Prime Minister emphasized the organization’s strengths. He underscored the vital role of small livestock breeders in Amul’s success and co-operatives’ achievements.
Tracing the roots of Amul back to the Kheda Milk Union under Sardar Patel’s guidance, the Prime Minister described it as a model of balance between cooperatives and the government. The last decade witnessed a 60% increase in milk production and a 40% rise in per capita milk availability in India. Prime Minister Modi highlighted that the Indian dairy sector is growing at 6% per year, compared to the global average of 2%.
Acknowledging the crucial role of women, Prime Minister Modi stated that 70% of the turnover in the Rs 10 lakh crore dairy sector is led by women. He emphasized the importance of ‘Nari Shakti’ (women empowerment) in the success of the dairy sector. The Prime Minister shared various initiatives, including Mudra Yojana, self-help groups, and PM Awas houses, where women play a pivotal role.
Expressing delight at the increasing number of women in Gujarat’s dairy cooperative committees, the Prime Minister praised efforts to disburse dairy income directly into their bank accounts. He lauded the establishment of micro ATMs in villages for livestock breeders to withdraw cash and schemes providing Rupay Kisan Credit Cards.
Prime Minister Modi discussed recent Cabinet decisions related to livestock, highlighting amendments to the National Livestock Mission to promote indigenous species and providing financial assistance for fodder cultivation on non-arable land. The Prime Minister also mentioned the reduction of insurance premiums for livestock protection and the free vaccination program worth Rs 15,000 crores to eradicate Foot and Mouth Disease by 2030.
Addressing the challenges of water scarcity in Gujarat, Prime Minister Modi emphasized the transformative impact of Narmada water reaching Saurashtra and Kutch, improving lives and agricultural practices. He highlighted the construction of over 60 Amrit Sarovar reservoirs by the government, benefiting the rural economy.
Focusing on strengthening the rural economy, the Prime Minister discussed the government’s comprehensive approach, providing support for efficient irrigation methods, promoting cooperative societies, and encouraging sustainable energy solutions in agriculture. The announcement of a scheme to purchase cow dung for electricity generation under the Gobar Dhan Yojana and initiatives like Kisan Samriddhi Kendras were highlighted.
In conclusion, Prime Minister Modi encouraged Amul to double its processing capacity in the next 5 years, making it the world’s largest dairy company. He assured the government’s full support, stating, “The government stands with you in every way, and this is Modi’s guarantee.”
The Golden Jubilee celebration witnessed the presence of dignitaries, including the Governor of Gujarat, Acharya Devvrat, Chief Minister of Gujarat, Bhupendra Patel, Union Minister of State for Animal Husbandry, Dairying and Fisheries of India, Parshottam Rupala, and Chairman of Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation, Shamal B Patel, along with more than 1.25 lakh farmers.