World Milk Day, celebrated annually on June 1st, is a global event that underscores the importance of milk and the dairy industry. Established by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations in 2001, the day aims to raise awareness about the nutritional benefits of milk and its role in global food security and economic development.
The theme for World Milk Day 2025 is “Let’s Celebrate the Power of Dairy”, highlighting the vital role dairy plays in building a sustainable and nutritious global food system. It also emphasizes dairy’s contribution to stronger communities, healthier lives, and a more sustainable future. This day recognizes the dedication of dairy farmers and other stakeholders, while inspiring innovation and fostering stronger partnerships within the industry.
As mentioned earlier, World Milk Day was initiated by the FAO in 2001 with the aim of spotlighting milk as a universal beverage and acknowledging the hard work of dairy farmers in milk production and economic growth. With the numerous health benefits associated with dairy products, it is only fitting to have a day dedicated to celebrating their contributions to our overall well-being.
World Milk Day is more than just a celebration – it is a movement that champions milk as a vital, accessible, and nourishing food source for billions across the globe. The FAO’s initiative focuses on educating the public about the importance of regular milk consumption and its nutritional value, ensuring people are well-informed and appreciative of dairy’s significance.
Dairy products are accessible, affordable, and packed with essential nutrients, making them a key component of balanced diets worldwide. In many cultures, milk is an everyday staple, used not only as a beverage but also in cooking and food preparation. Every year, World Milk Day serves as a reminder of the importance of the dairy industry and honors the health benefits of milk while recognizing the pivotal role of dairy farmers in making milk widely available.
India leads the world in milk production, contributing 22% of global output, followed by the United States, China, Pakistan, and Brazil. Among Indian states, the top five milk producers are:
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Uttar Pradesh (14.9%)
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Rajasthan (14.6%)
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Madhya Pradesh (8.6%)
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Gujarat (7.6%)
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Andhra Pradesh (7.0%)
Generation after generation, milk and dairy products have remained a trusted source of nutrition and comfort. Despite being a dietary staple, milk is often overlooked or misunderstood in today’s fast-paced world. Milk is the first food consumed by all living beings after birth, and it plays a crucial role in sustainability, nutrition, economic development, and livelihoods.
Packed with vital nutrients, milk helps build stronger bones, provides energy, supports memory, and contributes to overall physical growth. World Milk Day not only celebrates milk’s importance but also promotes public education on the value of dairy in our diets and communities.
Milk – a complete food – teaches us the importance of the dairy sector and its people. On this World Milk Day, let’s honor their contributions and celebrate the enduring power of dairy.
(Written by Vinod Chandrashekhar Dixit)
